4 dead, 13 injured after speeding car in Tampa crashes into business, pedestrians
At least four are dead and 13 others were injured when a driver lost control of a vehicle early Saturday while moving at a high speed, crashing into a business and hitting more than a dozen people in Tampa, Florida, police said.
The vehicle involved in the deadly crash has been previously observed street racing in Tampa, according to police.
Three victims died at the scene and a fourth victim died at the hospital, police said.
The number of injured rose from 11 to 13 when two victims "after the initial release, self-transported to a local hospital," police said on Saturday. In total, two patients remain in critical condition, two were treated on the scene and not hospitalized, two were admitted and then discharged, and seven others are listed in stable condition, police said.
Silas Sampson, 22, was detained at the scene of the crash, according to police.
The suspect was allegedly "driving recklessly" on I-275 before exiting the interstate at "a high rate of speed," police said. The vehicle came to a "final stop" when it crashed into the outdoor patio area of a bar, Bradley's on 7th, police said.
The establishment, which according to its social media is a "friendly gar bar where everyone is welcome," said in a statement that the incident has been "very traumatic" for the staff and that the bar will remain closed until Monday.
"We ask you to remember all those killed and injured in your prayers, as we do the same," Bradley Nelson, the owner of Bradley's on 7th, said in a statement.
Officials added that there is "no evidence to indicate that Sampson's actions were targeted toward any specific persons or businesses."
Air Service was monitoring the vehicle around 12:45 a.m. Police pursuing the car attempted an "unsuccessful PIT maneuver," but the driver continued speeding. Shortly after, the driver crashed into the business, police said.
"What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy, our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said in a statement Saturday.
"Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. The Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families," Bercaw said.
Sampson is scheduled to make his first appearance in court on Sunday at 10 a.m. local time, according to ABC Tampa Bay affiliate WFTS.
