TAMPA, Fla. — A 22-year-old man, Silas Sampson, is charged with vehicular homicide in a crash that killed four people outside a bar in Ybor City early Saturday morning. He will remain in custody until a hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Sampson's initial court appearance is set for Sunday at 11:30 a.m., following allegations of speeding and reckless driving. Witnesses reported that he sped off on I-275 before exiting downtown and crashing into Bradley's on 7th Avenue, where victims were gathered outside.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), two people are in critical condition, while eleven others suffered injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. FHP is seeking additional witnesses to the incident, which occurred around 12:40 a.m.
Authorities stated that Troopers pursued the vehicle after observing its erratic driving, but the pursuit was terminated prior to the crash due to pedestrian presence.
Three individuals died at the scene, with a fourth victim later passing away at the hospital. All 15 victims were adults; eight are currently in stable condition.
Sampson faces four felony counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing to elude serious bodily injury. He was previously cited for speeding on September 12, driving 99 mph in a 70 mph zone.
The investigation is ongoing. Community members are invited to a candlelight vigil at Bradley's on Saturday at 7 p.m. to honor the victims.