Bunnell, FL – A 54-year-old Ormond Beach man will serve life in prison for causing the deaths of an elderly couple while drinking and driving in Flagler County.
On Friday, Circuit Judge Dennis Craig handed down a life sentence for William Schwarz. Schwarz, who had 3 prior DUI convictions, was most recently convicted of four counts, including two DUI Manslaughter charges.
According to a release from the State Attorney's office, witnesses described Schwarz's driving as the worst they have ever seen.
"With a Blood Alcohol Level above .20 and speeds in excess of 90 MPH over a 17 mile stretch of 2 lane road, the defendant engaged in a terroristic driving spree that resulted in the death of 2 innocent and unsuspecting victims," said State Attorney R.J. Larizza. "While life sentences for DUI Manslaughter are rare, the defendant’s 3 prior DUI’s combined with other criminal charges illustrate his total disdain for the dangers of drinking and driving. It is our hope that the victims’ family find some measure of peace in the fact that this defendant was held accountable for his deadly decision to drink and drive."
Assistant State Attorney Jason Lewis served as the prosecutor in this case.
