MAIT Investigates Fatal Vehicle Versus Pedestrian Crash in Madeira Beach (26-010)

MADEIRA BEACH- Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) are investigating a vehicle versus pedestrian crash in Madeira Beach.

According to investigators, on January 23, 2026, at approximately 9:01 P.M., 72-year-old Michael Arndt was in a marked crosswalk near the intersection of 150^th Ave and Madeira Way. At the same time, 51-year-old Vanessa Downs was driving east on 150^th Ave in the median lane in a 2022 Jeep Wrangler.

Investigators say that Downs struck Arndt in the crosswalk and he fell underneath the vehicle.

Arndt was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Downs showed signs of impairment and performed poorly on field sobriety tests. She was arrested, charged with DUI Manslaughter, and transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

Next of kin has been notified.

The investigation continues.

Additional Information:
Michael Arndt (Victim – Deceased)
DOB: 08/06/1953

Vanessa Downs (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 09/14/1974
Address: 4561 Great Lakes Drive South, Clearwater