BUNNELL, FL – A Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputy is recovering after being exposed to suspected Fentanyl while testing narcotics as part of a traffic stop investigation, despite wearing personal protective equipment.
On August 10, 2023, around 3:45pm, FCSO Communications received several 9-1-1 calls about a reckless driver who had fled a hit-and-run in the City of Bunnell and then continued to drive recklessly on SR-11, reportedly running off the road several times and almost causing numerous additional crashes. The vehicle ultimately came to a stop on its own near 15150 SR-11. Bystanders stood by with the driver of the vehicle until law enforcement arrived.
Upon arrival, deputies located the driver seated in the driver’s seat with the car keys under his leg. Deputies could also view narcotics, an empty Bud Light can, and a mini “shooter” of alcohol in plain view within the vehicle. The driver, identified as 61-year-old George Clemons of Crescent City, FL, refused to conduct field sobriety exercises and was arrested for DUI.
While testing a powdery white substance found in the vehicle, FCSO Deputy Nick Huzior immediately began to feel lightheaded and requested Deputy First Class Kyle Gaddie to call for EMS. Deputy Huzior told DFC Gaddie that he felt extremely lightheaded, shaky, and could not feel his arms or legs. Knowing that the narcotics being tested could contain Fentanyl, DFC Gaddie administered one dose of Naxolone (Narcan) to Deputy Huzior. After several minutes went by without Deputy Huzior’s condition improving, DFC Gaddie administered a second dose of Narcan. The narcotics that Deputy Huzior were testing later tested presumptive positive for Fentanyl.
Deputy Huzior was transported by Flagler County Fire Rescue to AdventHealth – Palm Coast and was admitted to the emergency room for treatment. He was later released after treatment.
Clemons was arrested by FCSO on charges of DUI, Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana Under 20 Grams, Possession of a Legend Drug Without a Prescription, Possession of Suboxone, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Clemons was additionally arrested for Leaving the Scene of a Crash with Damage to Vehicle or Property by the Bunnell Police Department for the hit-and-run in their jurisdiction. Clemons is being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility on $25,500 bond.
“What happened yesterday is a perfect example of the dangers law enforcement face each and every day from poison on the streets,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Thankfully our deputies are well trained and equipped with Narcan which allowed DFC Gaddie to potentially save the life of a fellow deputy. I would also like to thank the Good Samaritans who stopped to check on Deputy Huzior and Gaddie while they were waiting for EMS as well as Flagler County Fire Rescue and AdventHealth – Palm Coast for taking care of him.”
See body cam footage of the rescue here: https://youtu.be/37k4DVx26dw
