Tim Crews | Fatal Alcohol-Related Boat Crash

Tim Crews was a Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who passed away at the age of 31 due to a boat accident. Crews had a high blood-alcohol level (0.14) at the time of his death.

About Tim Crews

Tim Crews was born on April 3, 1961, in Tampa, Florida. During high school, Crews became a baseball pitcher, beginning his love for the sport.

Crews eventually made his MLB debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers. From 1987 to 1992, Crews remained with the Dodgers.

As a member of the Dodgers, Crews was part of the team which won the 1988 World Series. However, Crews became a free agent after the season.

Throughout his career, Crews earned a record of 11-13 with a 3.44 run average in 423.2 innings. Additionally, he earned 15 saves.

In 1993, Crews signed with John Hart, the general manager of the Cleveland Indians.

The day before his death, Crews spent time with friends Fernando Montes, the team’s strength and conditioning coach, Perry Brigmond, and others. They enjoyed horseback riding and barbecuing.

How Tim Crews Died

On an off-day during spring training, Tim Crews died in a boating accident after accidentally speeding a bass boat on Little Lake Nellie into an unlit dock. 

Crews passed away the next morning at the Orlando Regional Medical Center on March 23, 1993 at age 31 in Clermont, Florida.

Blood-Alcohol Level & MLB Fatalities

It was discovered Crews’ blood-alcohol level was 0.14 at the time, indicating this was an alcohol-related boat crash. Two others were in the boat with Crews, including his Indians teammates Steve Olin and Bobby Ojeda.

Steve Olin died instantly in the crash while Bob Ojeda managed to survive. However, Ojeda suffered from several head injuries and spent the rest of the sport season recovering from his injuries.

Crews and Olin were the first active MLB players to die since Thurman Munson from the New York Yankees died in a plane crash in 1979. 

Aftermath

Because so many parties were involved and affected by the accident, the aftermath of the crash created grief for many families. Indians Manager Mike Hargrove met with other teammates in the clubhouse to inform them of the tragedy.

Crews was survived by his wife Laurie Crews and his children Tricia, Shawn, and Travis.

Olin was survived by his wife Patti Olin and their children Alexa, Garrett, and Kaylee.

A memorial was held in Winter Haven, Florida following the accident.

Tim Crews’ History Of Substance Abuse

In addition to a high blood alcohol level of 0.14 in Crews’ system which exceeds the legal limit in Florida, beer cans and vodka bottles were found in the boat which crashed, according to USA Today.

Although Tim Crews’ history of alcohol abuse is unknown, it’s important to understand the role alcohol played in the crash. Because of the high blood alcohol level, Crews was likely extremely impaired before the crash.

Did Tim Crews Attend Addiction Treatment?

Although there is no evidence of Tim Crews ever receiving treatment for a potential alcohol addiction, Crews was severely intoxicated at the time of his death and may have benefited from alcohol rehab.

Recovery Is Possible

When consumed in large quantities, alcohol can lead to a release of inhibitions and impaired motor skills. The death of Tim Crews should remind us of the importance of seeking addiction treatment, and that recovery is possible with professional care and support.

For information on our alcohol use disorder treatment options, please contact us today.