Overview
- Police identified the suspect as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, who was detained at the scene and booked on four counts of vehicular homicide and four counts of aggravated fleeing or eluding, all first-degree felonies.
- TPD air units had tracked the vehicle after it was observed street racing on Hillsborough Avenue and driving recklessly on I-275 before exiting toward downtown Tampa.
- Florida Highway Patrol attempted an unsuccessful PIT maneuver near Nebraska and Palm, then disengaged as the vehicle entered Ybor City shortly before it struck patrons outside Bradley’s on 7th.
- Four adults were killed and 11 others were injured, with several hospitalized and at least one reported in critical condition; officials said there is no indication the bar was specifically targeted.
- The investigation is active under FHP, including crash reconstruction and pending toxicology, as a community vigil and statements from city leaders renew focus on pursuit policies and street racing risks in nightlife districts.