Escambia deputies let driver go minutes before deadly Pensacola crash

Authorities under scrutiny after driver was allowed to continue driving before fatal wreck

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Pensacola authorities are under scrutiny after a driver stopped by Escambia County deputies was allowed to continue driving minutes before a Scenic Highway crash that killed two people. Pensacola Police later charged the man with DUI manslaughter based on toxicology results, and he's now awaiting extradition back to Pensacola. County officials are explaining what paramedics can and cannot do when a driver refuses transport.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about law enforcement protocols and procedures when dealing with suspected impaired drivers, as well as the broader issue of public safety on Pensacola's roads. The incident has sparked debate over whether more could have been done to prevent the fatal crash.

The details

According to reports, Escambia County deputies stopped the driver for a traffic violation shortly before the deadly crash on Scenic Highway. However, the deputies allowed the driver to continue on his way, despite suspecting he may have been impaired. Minutes later, the driver was involved in a crash that killed two people. Pensacola Police later charged the man with DUI manslaughter based on toxicology results.

  • Escambia County deputies stopped the driver for a traffic violation shortly before the deadly crash.
  • The fatal crash on Scenic Highway occurred just minutes after the deputies let the driver continue on his way.

The players

Escambia County deputies

Law enforcement officers who stopped the driver prior to the fatal crash but allowed him to continue driving.

Pensacola Police

The law enforcement agency that later charged the driver with DUI manslaughter following the deadly crash.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the driver out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the Pensacola community about law enforcement protocols for dealing with suspected impaired drivers, and whether more could have been done to prevent this tragic loss of life.