Longwood City Commissioner H.G. “Butch” Bundy, Jr. is in critical condition but stable at Orlando Regional Medical Center, according to his family, following a car crash in Longwood about 8 p.m. Sunday.
The crash happened at the intersection of Ronald Reagan Boulevard and North Street.
Investigators said it appears Bundy’s car lost control at North Street, crossed a median and flipped, taking out some streets signs before coming to a stop in front of Milwee Middle School.
Not long before Bundy was critically injured in the crash, investigators said Longwood Police got a call about a car driving recklessly down Ronald Reagan Boulevard, reaching speeds up to 90 miles per hour.
“There was a report prior to Longwood Police pulling up to the scene that there was a vehicle matching the description of the car involved in the accident, but we can’t confirm it was the same vehicle,” said Officer Kevin Tuck with the Longwood Police Department.
Police said Bundy was ejected from the Ford Mustang convertible he was driving and suffered serious head injuries. Investigators also said a passenger in the car described as a family friend, 61-year-old Christine Thompson, was wearing a seat belt and had to be pulled from the Mustang. Thompson was also taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center’s trauma center. At last check, Thompson is listed in serious condition but stable.
Investigators said charges are pending because speed and alcohol were factors in the crash, and witnesses said Bundy ran a red light just before the crash.
Bundy is Longwood’s District Four city commissioner and previously served two terms as Longwood mayor.
The Bundy family released a statement Monday afternoon:
“As I am sure many of you have heard, Butch Bundy and a dear family friend were involved in a serious car accident last night. Butch has suffered a number of serious injuries and is in critical but stable condition. Out of respect for others involved in the incident, we are not making any statements on their behalf as it is not our place. We are sincerely praying that everyone involved recovers fully. We appreciate all the concern, thoughts and prayers that have been extended to Butch, our family and loved ones. Butch loves his community and has been truly touched by the outpouring of support. As he is able and willing to see visitors, we will let everyone know. Please know that while we recognize that Butch is a public figure, this is a private family matter and we wish to handle it as such. Accordingly, we ask that everyone respect our privacy in this most difficult time. We promise to provide updates as they become available. God bless!”