FDOT Crew Targeted by Gunfire During Road Work

  fdot-crew-targeted-by-gunfire-during-road-work.html
  Automotive and Transportation on Tue, Dec 30th, 2025 by WESH
      Locale: UNITED STATES

FDOT Crew Targeted: Bullet Shatters Vehicle Window During Road Work in DeLand, Sparking Investigation and Safety Concerns

DeLand, FL – A Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) crew working on road improvements in DeLand was targeted by gunfire earlier this week, leaving one vehicle with a shattered window and raising serious concerns about the safety of transportation workers. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon near Arabella Avenue and Euclid Street, prompting an investigation by the Volusia County Sheriff's Office and highlighting a growing issue of attacks against infrastructure workers nationwide.

According to WESH 2 News, the FDOT crew was engaged in milling work – a process that involves grinding down existing asphalt – when they heard a popping sound. Initially believing it might be debris kicked up during the operation, they quickly realized a bullet had struck and shattered the passenger-side window of one of their vehicles. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the crew members.

"It's concerning anytime someone targets our crews," stated Steve Olson, FDOT District Secretary for North Florida, in an interview with WESH 2 News. "Our employees are out there working to improve roadways and keep everyone safe, and they deserve to do so without fear of violence."

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incident. Deputies secured the scene and collected evidence, including bullet fragments. While the motive remains unclear, authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including random gunfire or a targeted attack. As of this writing, no suspects have been identified and no arrests have been made.

The location of the incident – Arabella Avenue and Euclid Street – is within DeLand’s residential area. Residents in the neighborhood expressed shock and concern over the event. "It's scary to think something like that could happen right here," said one resident interviewed by WESH 2 News. “You just don’t expect it.”

This incident isn’t an isolated occurrence. FDOT officials confirmed they have seen a rise in incidents targeting their crews across Florida, mirroring a national trend. According to the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), there has been a significant increase in attacks on transportation workers over the past few years. These attacks range from verbal abuse and aggressive driving to vandalism and physical assaults. The ARTBA estimates that thousands of incidents occur annually, putting road crews at increased risk. [Link to ARTBA report - not directly linked in original article but relevant context]

Several factors are believed to be contributing to this rise in aggression towards infrastructure workers. These include frustration over traffic delays caused by construction projects, a general decline in respect for authority figures, and the anonymity afforded by vehicles. The COVID-19 pandemic also appears to have exacerbated the problem, with some experts suggesting increased stress and anxiety may be playing a role.

FDOT has implemented various measures to protect its employees, including increased signage warning drivers to slow down in work zones, public awareness campaigns emphasizing worker safety, and enhanced law enforcement presence at construction sites. They are also working closely with state legislators to strengthen penalties for those who endanger or harm transportation workers. Florida’s “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to move over a lane when approaching stopped emergency vehicles or maintenance crews, is frequently cited as a crucial tool in protecting these workers.

The incident in DeLand has prompted renewed calls for greater vigilance and stricter enforcement of traffic laws around work zones. FDOT officials are urging the public to be patient during road construction projects, to pay attention to signage, and to treat transportation workers with respect. They also encourage anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

"We want people to understand that these crews are essential," Olson emphasized. "They’re working hard to improve our roads, and we need everyone to be aware of their surroundings and respectful of the work being done." The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities hope to identify the shooter and bring them to justice, sending a clear message that attacks on infrastructure workers will not be tolerated.

Sources:

• WESH 2 News Article: https://www.wesh.com/article/dot-vehicle-window-shattered-bullet-deland/69888298
• American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) - Note: While not directly linked in the original article, this is a relevant source for context on attacks against infrastructure workers. (Search ARTBA website for reports on work zone safety and worker assaults).