Repeat DUI Offender Charged In Wrong-Way I-75 Crash That Killed Student
A repeat drunken-driving offender was charged after a wrong-way crash on I-75 in Charlotte County, Florida, early May 17 that killed a 21-year-old University of South Florida student.[1]
Authorities identified the victim as Lauryn Akey, a 21-year-old University of South Florida honors college student who had been returning from a wedding.[1] The driver of a second vehicle and her 12- and 15-year-old passengers suffered serious injuries, officials said.[1]
Olson allegedly made an improper U-turn into I-75 northbound lanes just after 1 a.m. on May 17, authorities said.[1] Police say his blood alcohol content measured 0.222, about three times the legal limit.[1] He has a prior 2019 impaired-driving conviction in Minnesota.[1]
A Charlotte County judge ordered Olson held without bond after his arrest, and he is scheduled to appear in court on June 15, 2026.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- The collision occurred just after 1 a.m. on May 17, 2026, when Olson allegedly made an improper U-turn into I-75 northbound lanes in Charlotte County, Florida.
- Victim Lauryn Akey, a 21-year-old University of South Florida student, was killed; the driver of a second vehicle and her 12- and 15-year-old passengers sustained serious injuries.
- Authorities say Olson's blood alcohol content measured 0.222, about three times the legal limit, and he has a prior 2019 impaired-driving conviction in Minnesota.
- A Charlotte County judge ordered Olson held without bond following his arrest, and a court appearance is set for June 15, 2026.
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