Home / Disasters and Accidents / Drunk Driver Crashes Ironman Jacksonville Course
Drunk Driver Crashes Ironman Jacksonville Course
10 Jun
Summary
- Drunk driver plowed through Ironman Jacksonville run course.
- Driver arrested after PIT maneuver stops vehicle.
- This marks the driver's third DUI arrest in 10 years.
A significant safety risk was averted on May 16 when Darrell Simon, 62, drove his vehicle through the Ironman Jacksonville race course. Officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office were present to ensure athlete safety during the 26.2-mile run when they received reports of the dangerous intrusion.
Officer Ernesto Valerio attempted to stop the driver, whose vehicle was captured on dash camera nearly striking participants. Another officer, Aaron Sanchez, also intervened, placing his own life in danger. Eventually, Officer Valerio employed a PIT maneuver at Park Street and Riverside Park Place to halt Simon's car.
Simon was taken into custody on multiple charges. This arrest is particularly concerning as it represents his third DUI charge in the past ten years. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office emphasized the severity of the incident, noting it could have resulted in tragedy, and commended the officer's swift response in preventing injuries or fatalities.
