LOWELL, Ind. – A tragic accident on Interstate 75 in Sarasota has resulted in the death of a Lowell, Indiana man and his son-in-law.
Dale Smith, 50, and Danny Culver, a Florida resident, were traveling in a pickup truck when they were struck by a suspected DUI driver on Saturday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The driver of the other vehicle fled the scene but was later arrested and is now facing charges of DUI manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident involving a death. The suspect has been identified as Donald Leif Johnsen, a 59-year-old man from Naples, Florida, who is now facing multiple charges including vehicular homicide, hit-and-run, and DUI property damage, according to Sarasota County jail records.
The impact of the crash caused the truck to flip over, ejecting the passengers. Despite efforts to save them, both Dale Smith and Danny Culver succumbed to their injuries. This devastating incident has left their surviving spouses, Shelley Culver and Jessica Smith, mourning the loss of their loved ones and facing significant medical expenses and other costs.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Shelley Culver and Jessica Smith during this difficult time. The campaign aims to raise funds to cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and other financial burdens that the families now face. The outpouring of support from the community has been heartwarming, with many people coming together to offer their condolences and contribute to the campaign.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving on the road. It is a tragic example of the devastating consequences of driving under the influence, and the importance of making responsible choices while behind the wheel. The families of Dale Smith and Danny Culver are now left to grapple with the immense loss caused by this preventable accident, and the community is coming together to offer support in their time of need.
As the legal process unfolds and the families of the victims seek justice, the GoFundMe campaign continues to gain traction, with many people expressing their sympathy and solidarity. As of noon Tuesday, the campaign has already raised $17,000 of a $20,000 goal.
The families of Dale Smith and Danny Culver are grateful for the outpouring of support and are overwhelmed by the generosity of those who have contributed to the GoFundMe campaign.
