John Camfield, 48, allegedly hit the middle school children, who has just gotten off a school bus, around 5 p.m. on Thursday.
According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, a witness driving behind Camfield saw him lean forward in the vehicle and then drive off the road. The witness then saw Camfield hit the students.
Investigators say Camfield first struck 15-year-old Jonte Robinson, then continued north on the shoulder, hitting 14-year-old Jasmine Robertson. He next allegedly struck Rylan Pryce, 12, and then 13-year-old Jahiem Robertson and 13-year old Juan Mena.
Jahiem Robertson reportedly died at the hospital. Mena suffered serious, life-threatening injuries which include spinal injuries, facial fractures, and head trauma.
The officer who apprehended Camfield was an off-duty deputy alerted to the incident by his 11-year-old daughter.
Camfield was arrested Thursday and faces an array of charges including DUI with serious bodily injury and leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury.
A former employer said that Camfield was one of the very best detectives, but he had a problem with alcohol.
Camfield had previous arrests in Mississippi on charges of DUI, driving with a suspended license and public intoxication.
Seven hours after the crash his blood alcohol level was .14. During the arrest Camfield fell asleep in the arresting officer's patrol car.