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Alcohol a factor in crash that critically injured Longwood city commissioner, police say

LONGWOOD, Fla. — Channel 9 has learned that alcohol may have played a factor in a crash that critically injured Longwood City Commissioner H.G. "Butch" Bundy Sunday night on Ronald Reagan Boulevard.

Authorities said Bundy was speeding and also ran a red light when the crash happened about 8 p.m. in front of Milwee Middle School.

Bundy lost control of his Mustang and slammed into a sign, snapping it in half. The vehicle then went another 200 yards, flipping twice, and hit another sign, authorities said.

Both Bundy and family friend Christine Thompson were rushed to the trauma center at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Thompson was reported to be in stable condition.

"It appears to be that speed and alcohol is a contributing factor to the accident," Officer Kevin Tuck said.

Police said the crash could have been caused by Bundy.

Police said they received a report of a reckless driver in the same area of the accident shortly before the crash.

Thompson's son said he believes his mother and the commissioner were coming back from a car show when the accident happened.

He said both are doing better and Bundy was well enough to be taken off a ventilator.

Bundy sustained head injuries after police said he ran a red light at North Street.

Police don't believe Bundy was wearing his seat belt, and said he was ejected from his car while Thompson was trapped inside by her seat belt.

Longwood residents said they're sending prayers to Bundy and Thompson.

"I think anyone in a position such as city commissioner should be treated the same. There should (be) no preferential treatment whether it's a city commissioner, cop or whatever," Longwood resident Sharon said, who didn't want to give her last name.

Pending his recovery, the commissioner may have more trouble on his hands and could face DUI charges.

Bundy's daughter wrote on his Facebook page, "We ask that you please give our family and friend the space and time needed for my father to heal and for us all to re-group."

Bundy, who represents District 4 on the Longwood City Commission, served two terms as Longwood mayor.