Florida Teacher Arrested After Alleged Drunk Driving Crash

A Florida middle school teacher was arrested after authorities say he crashed his vehicle while intoxicated in a school parking lot during the second day of classes.

Teacher Found Unconscious in Vehicle at Explorer K-8

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office reported that 32-year-old Philip Scire, an eighth-grade language arts teacher at Explorer K-8 in Spring Hill, was taken into custody on Tuesday and charged with driving under the influence.

(Hernando County Sheriff's Office )

Deputies said a school resource officer discovered Scire unconscious behind the wheel of his car around 11:45 a.m. following a single-vehicle crash into a fence on campus. Authorities noted that the vehicle was still in gear, and multiple empty single-serve alcohol containers were found within reach of the teacher.

Hospital Visit Before Arrest

According to deputies, Scire was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Officers reported smelling alcohol on his breath. He allegedly refused to submit to blood alcohol or chemical testing when requested. After being medically cleared, he was transported to the Hernando County Detention Center, where he is being held on a $1,000 bond.

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School District Response

The Hernando County School District confirmed Scire has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. At first, officials believed the crash stemmed from a “medical situation,” but the sheriff’s office later announced the DUI charge.

Community Shocked by Arrest

The incident left parents and students stunned. Many expressed disbelief on social media, describing Scire as an “amazing teacher” who had a positive influence on their children. One parent wrote, “My heart is broken over this. I’m thankful nobody was hurt, and I hope he gets the help he needs.”

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Background and Previous DUI

Records show this is not Scire’s first DUI-related arrest. In 2014, he faced a similar charge in Broward County. According to his LinkedIn profile, Scire graduated from Florida Atlantic University, previously worked as a bartender, and began teaching in 2017.

Personal posts on his Facebook page indicate that he married earlier this year and was expecting a child in late July.

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