URGENT UPDATE: Four people have died and eleven others are injured after a speeding car crashed into a crowd in Ybor City, Florida early Saturday morning. The incident, which occurred around 12:40 a.m., has left the community shaken and raises serious concerns about street racing and public safety.
According to the Tampa Police Department, the chaos began when police air units spotted two vehicles racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue towards Interstate 275. As one vehicle veered off, the other continued south on I-275. Authorities attempted a traffic stop but were unsuccessful. The situation escalated as the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) attempted a PIT maneuver to halt the speeding vehicle, but it was unable to make contact.
Sergeant Steve Gaskins of the FHP confirmed that the chase ended when the car sped into Ybor City and plowed through a crowd of over a dozen people outside a bar named Bradley’s. The impact was devastating, resulting in three fatalities at the scene and a fourth victim succumbing to injuries at a local hospital. As of this morning, one additional person is reported to be in critical condition while eight others remain hospitalized in stable condition. Two individuals with minor injuries refused treatment at the scene.
All victims were adults over the age of 20, emphasizing the tragic and senseless loss of life in this incident. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was arrested at the scene and faces serious charges including four felony counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury. Court records reveal that Sampson was cited for speeding just two months ago, clocking in at 99 mph in a 70 mph zone.
This shocking event has led to widespread condemnation and calls for increased enforcement against reckless driving. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw addressed the media, stressing the need for community awareness and vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The community mourns the loss of life while grappling with the urgent need for action against street racing and reckless driving.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
