Clearwater Woman Charged in DUI Manslaughter Faces Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Police
On December 4, 2022, at approximately 12:25 a.m., a fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and U.S. 19 in Clearwater, Florida. Hannah Ray, a 28-year-old Clearwater resident, was driving a Toyota Prius westbound when she attempted to turn onto the southbound U.S. 19 Frontage Road. In doing so, she crossed the path of an eastbound 2002 Honda motorcycle operated by 32-year-old Jeffrey Conner, also of Clearwater. The impact of the crash resulted in Conner sustaining critical injuries, and he was transported to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Investigators with the Clearwater Police Department reported that Ray exhibited multiple signs of impairment at the scene, including bloodshot and watery eyes, mumbled speech, swaying, tremors, and the odor of alcohol on her breath. She admitted to consuming alcohol prior to driving. She was arrested at the scene and charged with DUI manslaughter, a second-degree felony under Florida law. If convicted, the charge carries penalties of up to 15 years in prison, along with fines and license revocation. Ray was booked into the Pinellas County Jail and later released after posting a $10,000 bond.
While updates on the criminal proceedings have not been widely reported, recent court records indicate that Ray is now involved in a separate legal matter. On September 18, 2024, she filed a civil rights lawsuit against the City of Clearwater and Officer Scott Yeates in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The lawsuit, filed under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, alleges violations of her constitutional rights during her arrest or subsequent legal process. As of November 6, 2024, court filings show that the City of Clearwater and Officer Yeates have filed a motion to dismiss, while Ray has responded in opposition. The case remains ongoing.
This civil lawsuit is distinct from Ray’s original DUI manslaughter charge, and the outcome of the criminal case remains unclear. Legal proceedings, especially those involving serious felony charges, can take months or even years to resolve. Further developments in both cases may emerge as court records are updated.
Charges Below:
Booking Date: 09/18/24 City: Clearwater, Florida Age/YOB: 28
Hair: Brown Eyes: Hazel Weight: Height: Gender: Female
| Title | Type | Bond |
| DUI manslaughter | $ |