Mercedes Martinez
•6/15/2026
Dennis Olson appeared virtually before a Charlotte County judge Monday from the Charlotte County Jail, where prosecutors announced two new charges related to survivors of a deadly wrong-way crash on I-75. Olson, a Sarasota resident, was originally charged with vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter. He is now facing an additional DUI charge involving serious bodily harm and reckless driving. Florida Highway Patrol shared video last month that appeared to show Olson speeding with his headlights on in the wrong lanes of I-75 near the Lee and Charlotte county line. Troopers said Olson crashed into three cars, killing 21-year-old Lauryn Akey and seriously injuring a mother and her two children. Troopers said Olson admitted to having one glass of wine before driving, but his blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit. Olson filed a written plea of not guilty and waived arraignment. He is expected back in court next month.DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.
