FL Trooper Struck By DUI Driver Officially Back On The Job, Police Say

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — A Florida trooper struck by a DUI driver while trying to protect runners during the Skyway 10K is back on the job, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

"Trooper Toni Schuck has officially returned to full duty status effective today," Sgt. Steve Gaskins confirmed in an email.

Troopers said Schuck, 46, was injured in March after Kristen Kay Watts, 52, of Sarasota careened past road closures in place during a 10K race on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and crashed into Schuck, who was trying to prevent her from driving into runners.

Authorities said both were seriously injured in the collision and brought to a nearby hospital.

Watts was later arrested and charged with DUI causing serious bodily injury, FHP said.

SEE ALSO:

• DUI Driver Crashed Into FL Trooper During Skyway Bridge 10K: FHP
• Accused DUI Driver In Skyway Bridge 10K Crash Ruled Incompetent: Court

She had a blood alcohol level of .271 at the time of her arrest, which is more than three times the legal limit, according to the Florida Highway Patrol arrest report.

After risking her life to save others, Manatee County commissioners declared March 22, 2022, "Trooper Toni Schuck Day."

"Trooper Schuck selflessly placed her vehicle directly in the path of a drunk driver who was speeding toward runners participating in the Skyway 10k," the Bradenton Police Department also posted to Facebook.