BERKS COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — A New York man faces multiple charges, including DUI, following a crash that killed two firefighters on Saturday evening.
Alexander Sepulveda-Rivera, 26, of the Bronx, allegedly struck Walnuttown Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Jeff Buck and Assistant Fire Chief Robert Shick while they were stopped on the shoulder of Route 222. The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. as the firefighters were returning from a search for a missing woman.
Authorities reported that after the crash, two individuals exited the vehicle and fled the scene but were soon apprehended. Sepulveda-Rivera claimed he fell asleep while driving, according to police. He admitted to using marijuana earlier that day and was found in possession of a crack pipe and suspected marijuana.
Investigators noted that Sepulveda-Rivera did not have a valid driver's license and had an outstanding arrest warrant. After a legal blood test at the hospital, he was taken to Berks County Central Processing.
Sepulveda-Rivera is charged with 21 counts, including two counts of homicide by vehicle while DUI and two counts of involuntary manslaughter.
Autopsies for Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick are scheduled for Monday, according to the coroner's office.