UPDATE: A horrific crash in Ybor City, Florida, has left four people dead and 11 others injured after a speeding car plowed into a crowd early Saturday morning. The incident unfolded shortly after 12:40 a.m. when police air units observed two vehicles racing westbound on Hillsborough Avenue, heading towards Interstate 275.
Authorities report that one vehicle broke off while the other continued south on I-275. Attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to stop the speeding car, including a failed PIT maneuver, ultimately proved unsuccessful. The vehicle, driven by 22-year-old Silas Sampson, sped into Ybor City, crashing into people gathered outside a bar on 7th Avenue.
The impact was devastating, with three victims pronounced dead at the scene and a fourth dying later at the hospital. As of approximately 5:30 a.m., one individual remains in critical condition, while eight others are being treated for injuries at local hospitals, all in stable condition. Two additional victims with minor injuries declined treatment at the scene.
Police Chief Lee Bercaw confirmed that all victims were adults over the age of 20. Sampson has been arrested and charged with four felony counts of vehicular homicide and four felony counts of aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury. Records indicate he was cited for speeding less than two months ago, traveling at 99 mph in a 70 mph zone on Interstate 75.
This tragic incident raises urgent questions about road safety and reckless driving. As the investigation continues, local residents are left in shock, grappling with the impact of the crash on their community.
Next Steps: Investigators are working diligently to gather further details about the crash, and community leaders are calling for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
