NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL – A man has been arrested in connection with a deadly crash that resulted in the death of a woman in January, according to New Smyrna Beach police. The incident occurred on the North Causeway, not far from the drawbridge that allows boats to pass through.
Authorities say it took several months to make the arrest due to the need for blood test results and data retrieval from the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect, identified as Mark Ruth, is accused of causing multiple hit-and-run accidents that resulted in property damage on Peninsula Drive before the fatal collision on the North Causeway.
A memorial featuring a photograph of the victim surrounded by flowers is located at the base of the North Causeway Bridge. It has been a somber reminder for the community since the tragic event occurred four months ago. Police Chief Chris Kirk revealed that the victim was returning from a local farmers market and art show with her husband when the accident took place.
The crash happened during the Day of Images art show, creating a chaotic and catastrophic scene. Ruth was taken into custody Thursday night and faces charges including vehicular homicide, reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, possession of a controlled substance, and fleeing the scene of an accident.
Local residents, such as Haron Jetty, expressed relief that the case has finally seen progress. “It’s just really sad,” Jetty said. “People are in such a hurry and so impatient, but I’m glad justice is being served for this young lady and her family.”
Concerns about reckless driving in the area have been growing, especially after a March crash involving multiple vehicles that led to the temporary closure of the South Causeway Bridge. “People need to remember it’s life or death,” Jetty added. “You have to drive safely.”
Ruth appeared in court and was granted bond by a judge. The tragic incident occurred on a beautiful January day, when the victim and her husband, both in their early 60s from Altamonte Springs, were enjoying the Festival of the Arts. While the husband survived, his wife did not.
Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as horrific, with Ruth allegedly driving over posts and signs before the fatal impact. The couple was struck while walking on the sidewalk, with no chance to avoid the oncoming vehicle. The arrest may bring some solace to the grieving family, as someone will now be held accountable for the tragedy.