Posted: May 29, 2024
On December 3, 2023, Officers of the Punta Gorda Police Department responded to a two-vehicle traffic crash with entrapment at the intersection of Jones Loop Road and Indian Springs Cemetery Road. Officers, firefighters, paramedics, and citizens all attempted life-saving measures on Linda Reabe of Punta Gorda (66) at the scene. Reabe was transported to Shorepoint Punta Gorda Hospital where she was pronounced deceased.
The driver of the second vehicle was Andrew D. Hartwig of Punta Gorda (43). Hartwig’s vehicle was witnessed running a red light and striking Reabe’s vehicle without attempting to slow down. Officers observed Hartwig showing signs of impairment at the scene of the crash.
Search warrants were obtained for Hartwig’s blood and the contents of his vehicle. Lab results of Hartwig’s blood tested positive for Amphetamine and Methamphetamine and a substance later found to be Methamphetamine was discovered in Hartwig’s vehicle.
On May 28, 2024, following a lengthy and thorough investigation, Hartwig turned himself in at the Punta Gorda Police Department. He was charged with DUI Manslaughter, DUI Property Damage/Personal Injury, Possession of a Controlled Substance without Prescription, and Possession of Paraphernalia. Hartwig was incarcerated in the Charlotte County Jail.
