Authorities ID Pickup Driver Killed In Fiery Maryland Crash

HYATTSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- The driver police say caused a massive car accident in Hyattsville had been cited multiple times for driving with a suspended license. Court records reveal 30-year-old Medardo Flores had a long list of violations behind the wheel.

Tracey Leong looks into his driving record, showing he was a potential danger on the road.

Published reports show Medardo Flores had a record of driving carelessly and was an accident waiting to happen. Police say he was to blame for a mass casualty in Hyattsville when he drove his truck into a church van carrying 16 people---killing himself and four others.

"This began as a hit-and-run with the driver not stopping," said Julie Parker, Prince George's County police.

WJZ obtained Maryland court documents revealing a long list of violations for Flores behind the wheel, including charges of drinking and driving and, according to the Washington Post, was repeatedly cited for driving with a suspended license, which was suspended again at the end of 2014.

Flores had a pattern of reckless behavior while on the road and investigators may never know what led to his final accident---making it difficult for loved ones hoping to heal.

"Trying to speak to everyone and see how they are feeling and I know they are feeling very bad," said the church's pastor.

Church members consoled each other and embraced during this difficult time. The last time they met was the night of the fatal crash. The congregation was just four miles from their place of worship when Flores' truck slammed into the van.

Santiago and Elba Merche were killed; they had been married for over 50 years.

"Her face was all red; I couldn't even see her," said Karen Merche. "And my grandpa...it was terrible."

Thirteen more people from the van are still in the hospital. That includes Marta Rodriguez, who was nine months pregnant and lost her baby that was due in a week. She and her six-year-old daughter Deanna are still both in comas.

Records show Flores had spent time in jail for various traffic infractions and was charged with driving drunk and possessing drugs.

The 13 injured range in age from six months to the late 70s.