DAYTONA BEACH SHORES, Fla. (CBS12) — A deadly toll booth crash on June 1 involved a suspected drunk driver, resulting in the death of a toll worker.
According to the Volusia Sheriff's Office, deputies received multiple 911 calls regarding a pickup truck driving erratically along Peninsula Drive shortly before the collision. Witness reports indicated the vehicle nearly collided with several cars and objects before entering the toll booth area.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood confirmed that 35-year-old Deanna Harrell had reportedly been drinking at a local bar earlier that day. The timeline indicates the crash occurred just moments after the toll booth worker, 63-year-old Tammy Jo Baker, entered her booth, signaling the tragedy unfolded swiftly.
Chitwood stated, “At 12:38, she kills our victim… At 12:40, she's dead. At 12:39, EMTs are on location.” Body camera footage shows first responders arriving at the scene shortly after the impact. Harrell's vehicle continued south along the beach before becoming stuck in the sand.
Deputies noted signs of intoxication in Harrell, leading to her arrest. She was placed under the Baker Act for making threats of self-harm. On Wednesday, the sheriff's office announced that Harrell faces charges for vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter in connection with Baker's death.
Baker's family is mourning her loss, describing her as a devoted mother and grandmother. She was deeply loved, and relatives gathered to honor her memory at the beach she cherished.
City officials are urging motorists to exercise caution in the area. Daytona Beach Shores Mayor Nancy Miller emphasized the need for drivers to slow down and remain vigilant while navigating shared spaces with pedestrians.