Horrific Ybor city crash: 4 dead, 11 injured after street racing disaster in Tampa

A devastating incident unfolded in Tampa’s bustling Ybor City neighborhood early Saturday morning when a car, allegedly involved in street racing, plowed into a crowd outside a local bar, leaving four dead and 11 others injured. Authorities confirmed that the driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was arrested at the scene and faces multiple serious charges, including vehicular homicide.

According to the Tampa Police Department (TPD), the chain of events began around 12:30 a.m. when officers noticed two vehicles racing near Hanna Avenue and Nebraska Avenue. The suspected vehicle later merged onto I-275 Southbound, prompting Florida Highway Patrol officers to join the pursuit. TPD’s air unit tracked the vehicle as it exited downtown Tampa and headed toward Nebraska Avenue and Palm Avenue, where authorities attempted a PIT maneuver to stop it.

The pursuit continued along the busy 7th Avenue corridor, where the driver reportedly lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the front of Bradley’s, a popular bar, striking numerous people outside. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as patrons tried to flee the bar’s patio in panic. Tragically, three pedestrians were pronounced dead at the scene, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at a local hospital. Among the injured, some are in critical condition, while others sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw called the incident “a senseless tragedy,” emphasizing the reckless behavior that led to such devastating consequences. “All of the victims were adults enjoying a night out. They never expected that a careless driver would turn their evening into a nightmare,” he said.

Sampson was immediately taken into custody following the crash. Authorities reported that he will face four counts of vehicular homicide, as well as multiple counts of aggravated fleeing to elude with serious bodily injuries. Officials continue to investigate whether additional charges may follow. It is not yet clear if Sampson has secured legal representation.

Mayor Jane Castor also released a statement expressing her condolences to the families of the victims and commending law enforcement for their swift response. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident,” she said.

This tragic episode has reignited discussions around street racing and public safety in Tampa. Law enforcement officials remind residents that reckless driving endangers not only the driver but also bystanders, who often have no warning or ability to escape.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident or any related street racing activity to come forward. The case remains active, and updates are expected as investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the crash.

FAQ

Q: How many people were killed in the Ybor City crash?
A: Four people died as a result of the crash. Three were pronounced dead at the scene, and a fourth died at a hospital.

Q: How many people were injured?
A: Eleven others sustained injuries, ranging from minor to severe, with some in critical condition.

Q: Who is the driver involved in the crash?
A: The alleged driver has been identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson.

Q: What charges is the driver facing?
A: Sampson faces four counts of vehicular homicide and multiple counts of aggravated fleeing to elude with serious bodily injury.

Q: Where did the crash occur?
A: The crash occurred outside Bradley’s bar on 7th Avenue in Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood.