URGENT UPDATE: A devastating crash in Ybor City, Florida, has left four people dead and 11 injured after a speeding car careened into a crowd early Saturday morning. The incident occurred around 12:40 a.m., when the Tampa Police Department’s air units observed two vehicles racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue toward Interstate 275.
According to Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw, one vehicle broke away from the race, while the other continued south on I-275. The Florida Highway Patrol attempted a traffic stop, but their efforts were unsuccessful. Sergeant Steve Gaskins revealed in a press conference that troopers disengaged when the speeding vehicle entered Ybor City.
The car barreled down 7th Avenue and crashed near Bradley’s bar, hitting more than a dozen people who were outside. Three victims tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while a fourth was pronounced dead at a local hospital. As of 5:30 a.m., a fifth individual remains in critical condition, with eight others hospitalized in stable condition. Two additional victims suffered minor injuries and declined treatment.
All victims are reported to be adults over the age of 20, intensifying the impact of this horrific event on the community. The suspect, 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was arrested at the scene and faces a total of eight felony charges, including four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing resulting in serious bodily injury. Notably, court records indicate that Sampson was cited for speeding just two months ago, having been clocked at 99 mph in a 70 mph zone on Interstate 75.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness about road safety and the severe consequences of reckless driving. As investigations continue, authorities are urging witnesses to come forward and provide any additional information regarding the crash.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the community grapples with the fallout of this horrific event.
