Clearwater Fireworks Spectators Say Man Drove Directly Toward Them

CLEARWATER, FL — A Clearwater man was arrested after being accused of driving at a high speed toward pedestrians leaving the city of Clearwater fireworks display July 4 at BayCare Ballpark, according to an affidavit from the Clearwater Police Department.

Police said Robert M. Harvey, 61, of McMullen Booth Road, drove directly toward a group of pedestrians in the crosswalk outside the stadium on Northeast Coachman Road at 10:09 p.m., coming within 6 feet of them before braking, according to an affidavit from the Clearwater Police Department.

When police stopped him, they said they could smell a strong odor of alcohol on his breath, had bloodshot eyes, was unsteady on his feet and his speech was slurred, according to an affidavit from the Clearwater Police Department.

Harvey admitted to having multiple beers before getting behind the wheel, according to an affidavit from the Clearwater Police Department.

He was charged with driving under the influence and reckless driving, according to an affidavit from the Clearwater Police Department.