Florida Man Charged After Racing Leads to Deadly Crash That Killed 4 and Injured 13 in Tampa
TAMPA, Fla. — A Florida man is facing multiple felony charges after a deadly crash in Ybor City killed four people and injured at least thirteen others early Saturday morning, according to the Tampa Police Department.
Authorities identified the suspect as 22-year-old Silas Sampson of Dade City, who police say was driving recklessly as part of a street race before losing control and plowing into a crowd of pedestrians near 7th Avenue.
Street Racing Turned Deadly
Police Chief Lee Bercaw said the incident began around 12:40 a.m. when air patrol units spotted two vehicles racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue toward Interstate 275. Officers attempted to intervene, and one of the cars — later identified as Sampson’s vehicle — sped away at a dangerous speed.
After exiting the highway, Sampson’s car crashed near a bar called Bradley’s, striking multiple people standing outside. The impact was devastating, leaving three victims dead at the scene and several others trapped under debris.
A fourth victim later died at the hospital, while another person remains in critical condition.
Police Pursuit and Arrest
Before the collision, the Florida Highway Patrol had attempted to perform a PIT maneuver — a tactical move used to stop fleeing vehicles — but was unable to safely bring Sampson’s car under control.
Sampson was arrested at the crash site and charged with four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury.
“This is a tragic and preventable event,” said Sergeant Steve Gaskins. “Street racing endangers everyone — drivers, passengers, and innocent people nearby. This incident shows just how quickly lives can be lost.”
Previous Record of Reckless Driving
Court records reveal Sampson had previously been cited for speeding at 99 mph on Interstate 75 in Hillsborough County just two months ago. The posted speed limit in that area was 70 mph.
Police say alcohol and excessive speed may have both played roles in the crash, though the full toxicology results are pending.
Community in Shock
The Ybor City community is mourning the victims, with residents leaving flowers and candles at the site of the crash. Several witnesses described the chaotic aftermath, with bystanders trying to help those struck before paramedics arrived.
“It looked like a bomb went off,” one witness told local reporters. “People were screaming, cars were wrecked, and debris was everywhere. It was horrific.”
Investigation Ongoing
Tampa police and the Florida Highway Patrol continue to investigate the crash, reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts. Authorities are also working to determine whether other drivers involved in the race may face charges.
“This kind of reckless behavior will not be tolerated,” Bercaw said. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families who are suffering an unimaginable loss.”
For continued updates on this developing story, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
