TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Police Department helicopter played a key role in the swift and safe apprehension of two individuals involved in reckless driving and a street intersection takeover.
In the early morning hours of March 16, 2024, Tampa Police responded to reports of a group of vehicles blocking the intersection of W. Kennedy Blvd. and N. MacDill Ave.
Officers with the Tampa Police Aviation Unit observed a group of subjects lighting a fire in the intersection as a green Ford Mustang engaged in reckless driving, doing donuts, and impeding traffic in the blocked intersection.
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Patrol officers on the ground attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the Mustang, but the driver fled northbound. The officers did not engage in a pursuit.
The vehicle was monitored by the officers in the Tampa Police helicopter, who provided real-time updates to officers on the ground.
The Mustang eventually came to a stop at the 7-Eleven, located at 4320 N. MacDill Ave., where officers were able to safely apprehend both the driver and passenger of the vehicle and take them into custody.
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“The reckless behavior of those involved in this type of activity is completely unacceptable,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “This type of street takeover not only puts participants at risk but also creates a dangerous situation for innocent motorists and pedestrians in our community. It should be clear that those who choose to engage in such reckless activity will be arrested, and their vehicles will be impounded.”
24-year-old Anwar Yasser Awdi was charged with Unlawful Racing on a Highway and Fleeing to Elude an Officer.
19-year-old Jawad Yasser Awdi was charged with Unlawful Racing on a Highway.
The Mustang was impounded. This remains an active investigation as detectives work to identify others involved in this illegal activity.
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