A Florida minister finds himself facing multiple charges after he caused a deadly car crash that tragically killed a mother of four. Nicholas Betancourt, 33, is being charged with DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and more after taking the life of Dana Maria Rivera in February just hours after he was released from jail for a DUI arrest. The crash happened in Odessa when Betancourt’s vehicle crossed lanes and slammed into Rivera’s car.
Dana Maria Rivera, 36, was traveling southbound with her children when Nicholas Betancourt allegedly drifted into her lane while traveling northbound. The Florida minister’s Pacifica minivan crashed into the mother of four’s Lincoln Town car, killing her. Police later revealed that Betancourt was fresh out of jail for a prior DUI arrest. Just hours after his release, the fatal accident occurred, per Law & Crime.
After Betancourt’s arrest, the authorities claimed that he appeared to be “on the nod” and looked to be intoxicated with “droopy” eyes.
“As the defendant crossed an intersection, it appeared the Pacifica drifted off the right side of the road and into the grassy shoulder area,” according to prosecutors.
Following the crash, Betancourt was taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries. His blood tests later revealed that he had several substances in his system including cocaine, amphetamines, oxycodone, and benzodiazepines. When police searched his vehicle they found an array of drugs such as Oxycodone, Xanax, Psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA, and cocaine, as well as Narcan.
Minister Kills Mom Of Four Just Hours After DUI Jail Release in Florida
Dana Rivera was described as a busy mom with a generous, loving, and silly personality. She reportedly also held two jobs and juggled it all with grace.
Of course, there was a strong reaction to Rivera’s death and Betancourt’s shocking crime.
“Give this POS 50 years,” one person commented.
“Maybe suspending their licenses isn’t enough, maybe their cars should be impounded instead,” another suggested.
“The idea of going out into public totally out of control is utterly horrifying to me,” a third comment read.
“So this minister kills a mom after his DUI release and we still learn nothing. This happens over and over. There has to be a better way to handle drunk drivers,” a fourth person demanded.
This senseless tragedy has undoubtedly rocked the community and Rivera’s loved ones. However, police hope that Betancourt’s arrest will bring even a sliver of peace to those close to the victim.
“A mother lost her life, and her children will carry that emotional scar forever,” said HCSO Sheriff Chad Chronister in a statement. “This family’s life was shattered in an instant because of one man’s selfish and reckless decision. Nothing will ever bring their mother back or erase the trauma these children will carry for the rest of their lives, but we want them to know they are not alone. We will stand by them. We will do everything in our power to ensure this man is held accountable for the devastation he has caused. I hope this arrest brings Dana Rivera’s family some sense of peace and justice.”
This Florida tragedy won’t soon be forgotten by Dana Rivera’s family. Sadly, her life was lost while Minister Nicholas Betancourt is forced to face the music for the tragic mistake to led him to kill the mom of four. Unfortunately, his prior DUI arrest didn’t seem to be enough to scare him off from driving impaired.
