Pirates top prospect Oneil Cruz is in more trouble than previously believed.
Authorities now say that the 21-year-old infielder was under the influence of alcohol when his vehicle crashed into a motorcycle, killing two males and one female in the Dominican Republic.
Cruz was arrested at the scene in the early hours of Monday and both Cruz and the victims on the motorcycle were out past curfew in the Dominican. The curfew was established in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Cruz was reportedly not injured in the accident and remains behind bars.
The Pirates say they are aware of the situation and released a statement on Tuesday:
“The Pirates are aware of the tragic accident in the Dominican Republic involving Oneil Cruz. We have been in contact with Oneil and he is cooperating fully with the local authorities. We will provide and update as more information becomes available.”
If found guilty, Cruz could face up to three to five years in prison along with fines.
It was previously reported that Cruz did not have alcohol in his system.
Cruz is scheduled to have a preliminary hearing Wednesday.
The 21-year-old Cruz, spent most of the season at the Pirates satellite camp in Altoona and most likely would’ve played AAA ball in Indianapolis if it was a normal summer.
Oneil batted .269 in Altoona for the Curve last season with 32 hits, eight doubles, three triples and one home run.