DUI Hit & Run Suspect Threatens To Kill Deputy & Family

DeBary, FL – A DeBary man is facing multiple charges after the Volusia Sheriff’s Office (VSO) says he threatened to kill a deputy and their family following an arrest for DUI and leaving the scene of a crash. Deputies arrived at the crash scene off West Highbanks Road and Columbine Trail Thursday afternoon (March 4th). According to a report from VSO obtained by News Daytona Beach, a vehicle driven by 49-year-old Gary Hartwell ran a stop sign and struck a vehicle driven by a 45-year-old female. That female’s vehicle was then struck by another vehicle driven by a 26-year-old female. After the crash, one of the witnesses reported seeing Hartwell run from the scene. He was apprehended not long after the crash by deputies. While attempting to interview Hartwell, one deputy noted in their report that his breath smelled of alcohol, his eyes were bloodshot and his speech was slurred. After making that discovery, deputies began a series of DUI tests that was eventually stopped by Hartwell, who reportedly refused to do anymore tests. In addition to the tests, Hartwell also refused to provide a breath sample—deputies further noted in a report that Hartwell has refused to provide a sample before. Hartwell was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence, DUI with property damage, prior refusal to submit a test, and two counts of leaving the scene of an accident with injuries. On the drive from the crash scene to the Volusia County Branch Jail, Hartwell began to threaten a deputy. According to the deputy’s report, Hartwell began to threaten the deputy’s life and his family’s life, saying "I’m gonna kill your whole family." After passing the area of South Charles Road and Dogwood Trail, Hartwell allegedly asked the deputy to drop him off at his house. As expected, the deputy refused, which is when Hartwell threatened him again and began to kick the partition between him and the deputy. Another deputy was soon called for help, leading Hartwell to be restrained further. As the drive continued, so did the threats. Hartwell was additionally charged with corruption by threat against a public official. Data from the Volusia County Clerk of Courts shows Hartwell remains in jail with bond set at $9,500.