Tampa Crash Tragedy: 4 Dead, 11 Injured

The Tampa Police Department is conducting an investigation into a tragic crash that resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries in Ybor City. This incident occurred early Saturday morning, claiming the lives of four individuals and injuring eleven others.

Tampa Crash Tragedy Claims Four Lives

On Saturday, just after 12:40 a.m., authorities reported two cars racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue toward Interstate 275. One vehicle deviated from the path, while a silver 2019 Toyota Camry continued on southbound I-275. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) attempted a traffic stop on the Camry, which subsequently fled the scene.

Pursuit and Crash Details

The FHP attempted a precision immobilization technique (PIT) to stop the fleeing vehicle. However, after the maneuver failed, they withdrew from the pursuit. Tragically, the Camry sped down 7th Avenue and collided with a crowd near Bradley’s bar, a popular spot in Ybor City.

• Three victims died at the crash site.
• A fourth victim succumbed to injuries at a hospital.
• One person remains in critical condition.
• Eight others are treated for injuries but are in stable condition.
• Two individuals with minor injuries opted not to receive treatment.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw expressed his condolences, stating that all victims were adults over the age of 20. He highlighted the disappointment of a carefree night turning into a tragic incident due to reckless driving.

Suspect Arrested

The suspected driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson from Dade City, Florida, has been apprehended. He is currently held at the Hillsborough County Jail.

• Sampson faces four counts of vehicular homicide.
• Additional charges include aggravated fleeing to elude and serious bodily injury or death.
• Further felony charges are anticipated as the investigation unfolds.

The FHP is leading the inquiry into this devastating incident. Investigators continue to gather evidence and conduct interviews to understand the full scope of the events that led to this heartbreaking crash.