UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded in Ybor City, Florida early this morning, leaving four people dead and eleven injured after a speeding car plowed into a crowd outside a bar. The crash occurred around 12:40 a.m. as authorities report that a high-speed chase involving multiple vehicles led to the devastating collision.
According to the Tampa Police Department, the events began when police air units spotted two vehicles racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue towards Interstate 275. One vehicle broke off from the pursuit, while the other continued south on I-275. Attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to stop the vehicle were unsuccessful, despite efforts to execute a PIT maneuver.
As the speeding car entered Ybor City, it barreled down 7th Avenue and crashed near Bradley’s bar, striking more than a dozen people gathered outside. Tragically, three victims died at the scene, with a fourth succumbing to injuries at a local hospital. As of 5:30 a.m., one individual remains in critical condition, while eight others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
All victims were adults over the age of 20, highlighting the human toll of this shocking event. The suspect, 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.
This incident marks a devastating moment for the Ybor City community and raises questions about street racing and public safety. Less than two months prior, Sampson received a citation for speeding at 99 mph on Interstate 75, where the speed limit is 70 mph, indicating a troubling pattern of reckless behavior.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, and further updates are expected as the situation develops. Community members are urged to stay away from the area as police continue to gather evidence and assess the damage.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers posed by reckless driving and the urgent need for safer streets. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
