MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – A car crashed into a health rehab center Tuesday morning on Merritt Island, striking a 64-year-old woman inside, the Florida Highway Patrol said.
The crash was reported around 8 a.m. at the Island Health and Rehabilitation Center at 125 Alma Blvd.
The driver, Matthew Wayne Anthony, 35, of Cocoa, and the victim were taken to Holmes Regional Medical Center, troopers said. They both suffered minor injuries.
According to the FHP, Anthony was driving on Lean Street when he passed out. Troopers said his car went through two fences and entered the building, hitting Teresa Bogener, who was sleeping.
The rehab center said Bogener was released from the hospital later in the morning.
"I'm happy to report that all of our patients and residents were uninjured," said Jennifer Trapp with Consulate Health Care. "Everyone at this point in time is safe," she told News 6.
The center said seven other residents of the building would be relocated to other facilities while the building is repaired.
Trapp said 120 people stay at the center for treatment.
"I'm very proud of our teams here. They responded very quickly. We do have protocols in place to ensure the safety of our patients and residents. That is always our top priority," said Trapp.
According to an FHP report, troopers suspected that Anthony was impaired by drugs. Troopers said a blood sample was taken from Anthony. Charges are pending the results of the test, the FHP said.