DUI Driver Arrested In Tampa-Area Crash: Hillsborough County Sheriff

TAMPA, FL — A driver accused of driving under the influence was arrested after an early Monday morning crash on Waters Avenue, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office wrote in a Facebook post. (Watch deputy bodycam footage from the scene below.)

Deputies responded to the two-vehicle crash around 2:45 a.m. and found a man pinned inside his truck, which hit a tree.

Investigators found that Howard Cruz Denis, 33, who was driving west on Waters Avenue, was speeding when he rear-ended the victim’s truck, pushing it into the tree, the sheriff’s office said.
Cruz Denis showed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation was conducted.

The victim was brought to St. Joseph’s Hospital with serious lower leg injuries but was in stable condition Monday afternoon and is expected to recover, HCSO said.

Cruz Denis was arrested and charged with DUI with serious bodily injury.

"This crash is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Driving under the influence is a choice that puts lives at risk. We are thankful the victim is expected to recover, and we urge everyone to make responsible decisions to keep our roads safe."

Watch a deputy’s bodycam footage from the crash: