Lehigh Acres Man Faces DUI Manslaughter Charges in Deadly December Crash
Michael Espinosa Ramirez, a 27-year-old man from Lehigh Acres, has been arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter after a pedestrian was fatally struck in a crash last December, authorities confirmed.
The tragic incident occurred just after midnight on December 13, 2025, when the Fort Myers Police Department responded to a call reporting a pedestrian hit by a vehicle on the 11000 block of Colonial Boulevard. At the scene, officers found a blue Chevrolet Cruze and the critically injured pedestrian.
Investigators determined that Ramirez was behind the wheel and severely impaired. Emergency responders had to extricate Ramirez from the vehicle as he was unresponsive but breathing. Police found an open alcoholic beverage inside the car, and subsequent tests confirmed Ramirez’s blood alcohol content was above the legal limit.
Ramirez turned himself in on April 29, 2026, approximately four months after the fatal accident. He remains in custody with bond set at $35,000. Officials say Ramirez is charged with DUI manslaughter causing death and vehicular manslaughter. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 1.
Fatal Crash Highlights Continuing Road Safety Concerns
The deadly crash underscores ongoing concerns about impaired driving across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of lives are lost yearly due to alcohol-related crashes, a brutal reminder of the dangers behind the wheel.
For the Delaware community and nationwide readers, this case serves as a stark warning about the consequences of driving under the influence. Public safety advocates emphasize the importance of responsible behavior to prevent such tragedies.
Investigation and Legal Process Underway
The Fort Myers Police Department has stated the investigation is complete, and the charges reflect the severity of the crime. Authorities continue to encourage community vigilance and timely reporting when suspected impaired driving incidents arise.
With the suspect now in custody, the legal process will determine Ramirez’s accountability in this devastating incident. The victim’s family and community members await justice as the case progresses.
“Due to the severity of the crash and evidence of impairment, we pursued charges that reflect the loss caused by this tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Fort Myers Police Department.
The Delaware Herald will monitor this developing case closely, providing updates as new information becomes available. Readers are urged to prioritize safe driving and stay informed to help reduce impaired driving incidents locally and nationwide.
