Florida Pastor's Second DUI in 6 Hours KILLS

A minister’s release from jail marked the beginning of a devastating sequence that would forever change one family’s world. 🌐 #News #OdessaFL #Florida #Crime

ODESSA, FL — A Florida minister’s alleged drug-fueled rampage ended in tragedy when he crashed head-on into a family car, killing a beloved mother of four and sending three of her children to the hospital. Nicholas Betancourt, 33, faces multiple charges including DUI manslaughter after allegedly crossing into oncoming traffic on Gunn Highway, striking a Lincoln Town Car driven by Dana Maria Rivera, 36. The crash occurred just hours after Betancourt’s release from a separate DUI arrest.

A Trail of Warning Signs

Police records paint a troubling picture of the hours leading up to the crash.

Earlier that same day, February 27, concerned citizens reported Betancourt’s erratic driving to Pinellas County authorities. Deputies found him barely able to stand or keep his eyes open.

Despite having his license suspended after refusing a drug test, Betancourt was back behind the wheel within six hours.

Deadly Intersection of Choices

Dashboard camera footage revealed Betancourt’s Chrysler Pacifica drifting leftward at 58 mph in a 45-mph zone, never touching the brakes before impact.

Responding officers described him as nodding off at the crash scene, his eyes drooping.

Drug Cache Discovered

A search of Betancourt’s vehicle yielded a startling array of substances: methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, prescription medications, and what appeared to be psychedelic mushrooms.

Blood tests later confirmed multiple drugs in his system.

A Community Mourns

Rivera, a New Jersey native, worked two jobs — at Steinbrenner High School and Publix deli — while raising her children. Friends remember her infectious laugh and generous spirit. Three of her children, ages 4, 6, and 15, sustained serious injuries in the crash.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed his commitment to supporting the Rivera family through their devastating loss.

Betancourt, who has requested a public defender, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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RELATED TOPICS: Accidents | Crime | Florida | New Jersey