UPDATE: A tragic incident in Ybor City, Florida, has left four people dead and 11 injured after a speeding car crashed into a crowd early Saturday morning. The event unfolded around 12:40 a.m. as police were pursuing two vehicles racing on Hillsborough Avenue toward Interstate 275.
According to the Tampa Police Department, one vehicle broke off during the pursuit, while the other continued southbound on I-275. Attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to pull over the speeding car were unsuccessful. The situation escalated as the driver entered Ybor City, where police disengaged from the chase.
In a shocking turn of events, the vehicle sped down 7th Avenue and crashed near Bradley’s bar, hitting several individuals who were outside. Witnesses report chaos as the car plowed through a crowd of more than a dozen people, leading to immediate emergency responses.
Tragically, three victims died at the scene, and a fourth succumbed to injuries at a local hospital. As of 5:30 a.m., a fifth person remains in critical condition, while eight others are receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Two individuals with minor injuries declined medical assistance.
The driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was arrested at the scene and now faces eight felony charges, including four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury. Court records reveal that Sampson had previously been cited for speeding just weeks prior, reaching 99 mph on Interstate 75, where the speed limit is 70 mph.
This devastating event not only impacts the victims and their families but also raises urgent questions about public safety in the area. Local authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and supports those affected by this horrific crash. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
