OCALA, Fla. (CBS12) — An internal investigation is underway after two brothers, ages 24 and 33, were permitted to leave a scene prior to a fatal crash on SE Maricamp Road on Thursday.
The brothers were driving a dark red Dodge minivan when they collided with a black Mazda SUV, resulting in the deaths of a 50-year-old woman and her 31-year-old son. The crash occurred shortly after the officer encountered the brothers arguing on the sidewalk near State Road 200, according to Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken.
Both brothers were transported to the hospital; the older brother is in critical condition. Witnesses reported signs of impairment during the earlier interaction, but authorities said no DUI investigation was conducted at that time.
Chief Balken stated he found it troubling that the brothers were allowed to leave the scene. An internal affairs investigation will examine potential policy violations, and the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave.
Balken noted the officer is “extremely” new to the agency, having completed field training about 30 days prior. Two other responding officers were unaware of the possible impairment observed.
The crash remains under investigation.