Four Killed, 11 Injured in High-Speed Police Chase Crash

On the early morning of November 5th, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Ybor City, Tampa, when a police pursuit of a speeding driver ended in a devastating crash. According to the Tampa Police Department, the incident began around 12:40 a.m. when a police unit in the air spotted a vehicle being driven recklessly on Interstate 275.

The driver, later identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, continued to drive at a high rate of speed, exiting the interstate at Doyle Carlton Drive. Tampa police and Florida Highway Patrol troopers located the vehicle in the area of Palm and Nebraska avenues, and the highway patrol initiated a pursuit. Troopers attempted to stop the driver using a PIT maneuver, but it was unsuccessful.

The driver then sped towards Nebraska Avenue, continuing eastbound on 7th Avenue. As the driver approached 7th Avenue, the highway patrol disengaged from the pursuit. However, the driver continued at a high speed and ultimately lost control, crashing into a business and striking more than a dozen bystanders.

The crash resulted in a tragic outcome, with 3 people dying at the scene and a fourth succumbing to their injuries at a local hospital. Another person is in critical condition, while 8 more were taken to hospitals in stable condition. Two other victims declined treatment at the scene.

"What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy, our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted," said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. "Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger."

The Florida Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the incident.