TAMPA, Fla. – A tragic and chaotic morning struck Tampa’s Ybor City district early Saturday, as a vehicle, reportedly involved in prior reckless driving and street racing, lost control and slammed into a business at a high rate of speed, striking multiple pedestrians.
The crash, which occurred around 12:45 a.m. at the 1500 block of East 7th Avenue, has left four adult victims dead and 11 others injured.
The driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was detained at the scene.
“What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy. Our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said. “Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. The Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families.”
The fatal incident followed a sequence of events tracked by law enforcement:
- 12:40 a.m.: TPD Air Service began monitoring a vehicle driving recklessly and at a high rate of speed on I-275. Authorities believe this is the same vehicle previously observed street racing on Hillsborough Avenue near 22nd Street. The driver exited the interstate at Doyle Carlton Drive.
- 12:45 a.m.: TPD and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) located the vehicle near Palm and Nebraska Avenues. FHP initiated a pursuit and attempted an unsuccessful PIT maneuver.
- The pursuit was disengaged by FHP as the driver approached 7th Avenue, but the driver continued at a high rate of speed.
- The driver ultimately lost control, crashing into a business and hitting more than a dozen people who were standing outside.
Mass Casualties and Ongoing Investigation
The impact resulted in severe casualties, all of whom are adults:
- Four fatalities: Three victims died at the scene, and a fourth succumbed to injuries at a local hospital.
- One critical injury: A fifth victim remains hospitalized in critical condition.
- Eight stable injuries: Eight additional victims are being treated at local hospitals and are listed as stable.
- Two minor injuries: Two other victims sustained minor injuries but declined treatment at the scene.
The Florida Highway Patrol has taken the lead on the traffic crash investigation. This remains an active investigation, and additional updates on potential charges are expected.
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