VERO BEACH — A Vero Beach man faces DUI manslaughter charges after authorities say he struck and killed a bicyclist while driving impaired in a late-night crash last year.
Anthony McDaniel, 55, was arrested Aug. 23 in connection with the May 27, 2024, collision that claimed the life of 59-year-old Danelle Lozinak-DeMellier, according to an arrest warrant from the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash happened just before 9 p.m. in the 1400 block of 90th Avenue, east of Interstate 95 in Indian River County. McDaniel was behind the wheel of a white 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup when he rear-ended Lozinak-DeMellier, who was riding her bicycle near the fog line of the two-lane road, investigators said.
A state trooper who responded to the scene reported a strong smell of alcohol on McDaniel’s breath, along with slurred speech and unsteady balance as he leaned against his truck for support. McDaniel told the trooper he had consumed one beer earlier that evening and was taking opiate-based medication to manage symptoms from narcotic addiction, as well as blood pressure medication.
He claimed he spotted the bicycle off the roadway and tried to pass it, but said the bike suddenly veered into his path, forcing him to swerve. Despite his efforts, he couldn’t avoid the impact, according to the warrant.
A witness driving southbound on the avenue saw the pickup slam into the bicycle and pulled over to help. The driver attempted first aid, but Lozinak-DeMellier appeared lifeless at the scene and was pronounced dead shortly after at a nearby hospital.
A friend who had been with Lozinak-DeMellier earlier that day told investigators the victim’s bike was equipped with a headlamp and tail light, both illuminated when she left to head to a convenience store on U.S. 1.
McDaniel voluntarily provided a blood sample at the scene, which was later analyzed. The warrant, signed by Assistant State Attorney Justin Miller, notes that a person is considered under the influence if their blood alcohol level reaches 0.08% or higher. According to law enforcement officials, McDaniel’s blood alcohol level was 0.13% at the time of the accident.
McDaniel remains held in the Indian River County Jail on $51,500 bond.
The investigation wrapped up with the FHP providing its report on Sept. 15, leading to the charges.
