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Authorities report that witnesses observed a 36-year-old man from Lakeland consuming alcohol prior to his Jeep striking a 3-year-old boy who was running across traffic lanes.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — A man from Lakeland is now facing charges of driving under the influence after he allegedly hit a toddler with his Jeep on Daytona Beach, according to deputies.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office stated that the incident took place shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday, near the parking area on University Boulevard. Witnesses recount seeing the young boy dash across the traffic lanes from the direction of the ocean, inadvertently stepping in front of the slow-moving vehicle.
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The injured child was swiftly transported to a hospital under a trauma alert. Fortunately, the injuries sustained did not necessitate surgical intervention, and the child was later released.
Authorities noted that Brock Winkler, the 36-year-old driver, stayed at the scene after the accident and fully cooperated with the investigation.
Multiple witnesses reportedly told VCSO that Winkler was drinking before the crash.
A photo was provided showing several empty beer cans left behind where Winkler was allegedly parked.
Investigators then conducted field sobriety exercises, but note that Winkler refused to submit to a breath test.
Winkler is charged with DUI with serious bodily injury and refusal to submit to DUI testing.
He was taken to the Volusia County Branch Jail.