TAMPA, Fla. — A vehicular homicide incident at an Ybor City bar early Saturday morning left four dead and 13 injured, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The crash occurred at approximately 12:45 a.m. when a vehicle crashed into Bradley's on 7th Avenue, impacting multiple patrons outside the bar. Authorities confirmed two of the injured are in critical condition, while others are in stable and minor conditions.
According to the FHP, the driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was pursued after officers observed him driving recklessly at high speeds on I-275. The pursuit was discontinued before reaching the crash site due to safety concerns.
Witnesses reported that the vehicle was traveling at excessive speeds before losing control. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene; a fourth died later at a hospital. All victims were adults.
FHP is appealing for anyone with information to contact them at *FHP (*347). A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m. at Bradley's to honor the victims.
Sampson faces four felony counts of vehicular homicide and four felony counts of aggravated fleeing to elude serious bodily injury. He is currently in custody, awaiting his first court appearance Sunday at 11:30 a.m.
This investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as information emerges.