4 Dead, 11 Injured as Speeding Car Crashes into Ybor City Crowd

UPDATE: A devastating crash in Ybor City, Florida, has left four dead and 11 injured after a speeding car careened through a crowd early Saturday morning. Authorities report that the incident unfolded around 12:40 a.m. when police air units detected two vehicles racing on Hillsborough Avenue.

The chaos escalated as one vehicle split off, with the other speeding southbound on Interstate 275. Despite attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to conduct a traffic stop and a PIT maneuver, officers were unable to halt the reckless driver.

The speeding vehicle ultimately crashed near Bradley’s bar, plowing into more than a dozen unsuspecting pedestrians. Tragically, three victims died at the scene, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at the hospital. As of 5:30 a.m., one individual remains in critical condition, with eight others stable at local hospitals. Two additional victims declined treatment for minor injuries.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw confirmed that all victims were adults over the age of 20. The driver, 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was arrested at the scene and is now facing eight felony charges, including four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury. Court records reveal that just two months ago, Sampson received a speeding citation for traveling at 99 mph in a 70 mph zone on Interstate 75.

This incident marks a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving. As the community grapples with this loss, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws to prevent further tragedies.

Authorities are continuing their investigation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest developments.