A Sarasota man faces multiple charges following a deadly crash that occurred on Wednesday night. Joshua Slieff, 31, is accused of causing the fatal accident at the intersection of Fruitville Road and Tuttle Avenue. According to the Sarasota Police Department, Slieff was allegedly speeding when his vehicle struck a sedan that was stopped at a red light. WFLA news reported that the collision resulted in the death of the sedan's passenger and left its driver in critical condition.
Following the crash, which closed Fruitville Road for approximately seven hours, investigators have been gathering evidence to decipher the events that transpired that night. Investigators have utilized video evidence and witness testimonies, which suggest that alcohol and high speed were contributing factors. "Officers arrested Joshua Slieff, 31, of Sarasota, in connection with the deadly crash" according to FOX13 reported. Slieff has been charged with DUI manslaughter, DUI with serious bodily injury, and refusal to submit to a blood alcohol test.
The Sarasota County Jail is currently holding Slieff without bond, reflecting the severity of the accusations against him. The deadly incident adds to the sobering traffic statistics for the region, with the Sarasota Police Department citing that there have been 5,325 crashes in Sarasota County this year alone. "Of those, there have been 41 deaths and 3,263 injuries," according to data referenced by the Herald-Tribune. Manatee County has seen slightly fewer crashes but an equal number of fatalities.
The Sarasota Police Department’s Traffic Unit is investigating the crash to understand what happened. They encourage anyone with information to call them at 941-263-6025.
