Sarasota: ‘He shattered a family’: Ohio man gets 20 years for DUI crash that killed Florida couple – Wfla
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
State Attorney’s Office 12th Judicial Circuit
State Attorney Ed Brodsky announced today that Fred Donaldson was sentenced to 20½ years in prison for a December 14, 2025, DUI crash that killed a North Florida couple returning home from a family cruise. The crash occurred on I 75 near mile marker 203. The Honorable Judge Padar presided over the negotiated plea between the State of Florida and Mr. Donaldson during a hearing held on March 31, 2026.
Mr. Donaldson pled guilty to two counts of DUI Manslaughter. He received a 20½ year prison sentence followed by three years of probation, during which he must complete all required DUI sanctions and verify lawful compliance upon release from the Department of Corrections.
Florida Highway Patrol Lead Investigator Matthew Sill collected extensive evidence, including recorded statements, physical evidence, videos, photographs, and laboratory results, all of which were compiled and submitted for prosecution. Several civilian witnesses also provided video recordings documenting Mr. Donaldson’s driving pattern and the crash itself.
Assistant State Attorney Robert Gail, the lead prosecutor, noted in his closing argument to the Court:
“It was a team effort. The professionals who responded to the horrific scene performed their duties by the numbers. Through the combined work of the Florida Highway Patrol, responding Sarasota Sheriff’s deputies, Sarasota Fire and Rescue, and brave civilians, the proof of this crime was evident. The victim advocates of the State Attorney’s Office and Mothers Against Drunk Driving were instrumental in maintaining open communication with law enforcement and the families affected by this tragedy.”
State Attorney Ed Brodsky reiterated to everyone in the community that driving under the influence (DUI) is 100% preventable. Use a designated driver, a rideshare app, family, or friends to prevent tragedies like this.
For questions or further information, please contact Assistant State Attorney Robert Gail at the Sarasota County office at 941 861 4400.