DAYTONA BEACH SHORES, Fla. (CBS12) — A deadly crash at a Daytona Beach Shores toll booth on June 1 has resulted in the arrest of a suspected drunk driver.
According to the Volusia Sheriff's Office, deputies received multiple 911 calls about a pickup truck being driven erratically shortly before the incident. Witnesses reported the vehicle nearly colliding with other cars and objects along Peninsula Drive.
Investigators identified the driver as 35-year-old Deanna Harrell. Sheriff Mike Chitwood stated Harrell had been drinking at a local bar prior to the crash and was observed making dangerous maneuvers in traffic.
The toll booth worker, 63-year-old Tammy Jo Baker, was struck as she entered the booth. Chitwood detailed the timeline, noting Baker was inside at 12:38 p.m., and by 12:40 p.m., EMTs had arrived on scene.
Body camera footage released by deputies shows first responders rushing to assist Baker. Harrell was later found near her vehicle stuck in the sand along the beach and showed signs of intoxication, including the smell of alcohol.
Authorities reported Harrell was taken into custody and initially placed under the Baker Act for making threats of self-harm. She now faces charges of vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter in connection to Baker's death.
Chitwood stressed the commitment to a thorough investigation, stating, “When we get all the facts together, we're going to bring justice.”
Baker's family is mourning their loss, remembering her as a devoted mother and grandmother, cherished for her joyful spirit. Local officials urged the community to drive carefully in the beachside area, emphasizing pedestrian safety.