Hillsborough County, FL (June 14, 2026) – A Mulberry man was arrested following a deadly motorcycle collision on Friday evening on State Road 60 near Clarence Gordon Jr. Rd in Hillsborough County.
According to investigators, the wreck happened around 6:45 p.m. when a GMC Sierra exited a private driveway and traveled south into the path of a westbound Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The pickup, driven by 59-year-old Santiago Ruiz Rangel, struck the bike along the highway.
A 44-year-old Bartow man riding a motorcycle lost his life at the roadside. Ruiz Rangel was later taken into custody and booked into the Hillsborough County Jail on a DUI manslaughter charge. Troopers stated his blood alcohol concentration measured 0.170, which is more than twice the legal limit in Florida.
Additional details surrounding the fatal crash had not been released at the time of publication. Investigators are still working to determine all contributing factors connected to the roadway collision. We extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of the man who died.
How Alcohol Impairment Can Affect Drivers on Florida Roads
Alcohol use can reduce a driver’s reaction time, coordination, judgment, and ability to recognize hazards. Even small amounts may affect focus behind the wheel, especially on busy highways or roads with limited visibility. Drivers under the influence may also struggle to judge speed and distance correctly, increasing the chance of serious traffic collisions.
In Florida, a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 is considered legally impaired for most drivers. Higher levels can lead to more severe penalties, especially when a fatality occurs. Investigators mostly review roadway evidence, vehicle movement, witness statements, and toxicology findings after suspected impaired-driving crashes. These details may help explain how the collision unfolded and whether other factors also contributed to the deadly outcome.