Sarasota police arrest driver in fatal drunk driving crash

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – Sarasota Police have arrested 31-year-old Joshua Slieff of Sarasota in connection with a fatal crash that occurred at the intersection of Fruitville Road and Tuttle Avenue on Wednesday at 9:51 p.m.

Video evidence and witness statements indicate that Slieff was speeding when he rear-ended a Toyota sedan stopped at a red light.

The passenger of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver remains in critical condition.

Police believe alcohol was a factor in the accident.

Slieff was accused of the following:

• DUI Manslaughter (Felony)
• Driving under the influence of alcohol causing serious bodily injury (felony)
• Refusal to submit to a blood alcohol test

The Sarasota Police Department Traffic Unit continues to investigate this accident. Anyone with information about this accident is asked to call Sarasota Police at 941-263-6025.

Slieff is being held without bail in the Sarasota County Jail.

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