One dead in drunk driving crash in Bradenton, FHP says. Driver charged with manslaughter
.JPG "The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident that took place in Bradenton Thursday night.")
A single-vehicle crash Thursday night killed one and injured a 38-year-old Bradenton man who was driving, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers say Nicholas Rodriguez has been charged with DUI manslaughter following an overnight investigation. Rodriguez was booked into the Manatee County jail on Friday and remains in custody without bond.
Troopers were still trying to identify the deceased individual as of Friday morning.
According to FHP, the accident happened just after 8 p.m. near the intersection of 27th Street East and 26th Avenue East.
Troopers say Rodriguez was driving south on 27th Street East when the vehicle left the roadway and crashed into a pedestrian crosswalk indicator, as well as a utility pole. After the impact, the sedan burst into flames.
The unidentified passenger died at the scene and Rodriguez was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. He was arrested upon his release.
Troopers say the crash remains under investigation.
This story was originally published May 28, 2021 at 6:34 AM.