A speeding car fleeing police slammed into a crowded bar early Saturday, killing four people and injuring 11 in a historic district of Tampa, Florida, that is known for its nightlife and tourists.
An air patrol unit had spotted the silver sedan driving recklessly on a freeway at approximately 12:40 a.m. after it was reported street racing. The Florida Highway Patrol attempted a PIT maneuver to stop the vehicle, but it was unsuccessful.
Highway patrol officers disengaged as the car sped towards Ybor City. The driver eventually lost control and crashed into more than a dozen people gathered outside Bradley's on 7th. Three fatalities were recorded at the scene, while another victim succumbed at the hospital. As of Saturday afternoon, two individuals remain in critical condition, while others are stable or have been discharged.
“What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy; our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted,” stated Police Chief Lee Bercaw.
The suspect, 22-year-old Silas Sampson, is now in custody and facing four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing or eluding which resulted in serious injury or death. The Mayor of Tampa has expressed the community's deep anguish over this loss.
This incident has ignited conversations surrounding high-speed police chases, particularly given their high risks to community safety.
