• Source:JND
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Florida Car Attack: A late-night street-racing incident turned into a fatal tragedy in Tampa, Florida, early Saturday, when a speeding car fleeing law enforcement crashed into a crowd outside a busy bar. The horrific collision left four people dead and 11 others injured, shaking the historic nightlife district known for its bars, clubs, and tourist footfall. 

According to the Tampa Police Department, 22-year-old driver Silas Sampson was spotted street racing on Hillsborough Avenue shortly after 12:40 am. A police air patrol tracked the silver sedan as it manoeuvred at high speeds toward downtown Tampa. The Florida Highway Patrol attempted a PIT manoeuvre, but the attempt failed, a moment clearly visible in helicopter footage later released by authorities.

Officers subsequently disengaged the pursuit to prevent additional risk to the public. Sampson accelerated into the bustling Ybor City entertainment district, where crowds were still gathered outside venues.

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Crash Into LGBTQ Bar Leaves Devastation

Moments later, Sampson lost control and plowed into a group of around 15 people standing outside Bradley’s on 7th, a popular LGBTQ bar. Surveillance cameras captured the horrifying impact as patrons scrambled in panic.

Three victims died instantly on the pavement. A fourth, transported to a local hospital, succumbed to injuries soon after. The bar’s patio area was left mangled, with chairs, tables, and barricades thrown several meters.

The injured included individuals suffering critical trauma. Police confirmed:

2 in critical condition

7 stable and receiving treatment

2 treated and discharged

Police Chief Condemns ‘Senseless’ Loss

“This morning’s incident was a senseless tragedy," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said. "Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. We are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families.”

Sampson was arrested shortly after the crash and booked into Hillsborough County Jail. Court records show he faces:

4 counts of vehicular homicide

4 counts of aggravated fleeing or eluding

All charges are first-degree felonies. 

Bradley Nelson, owner of Bradley’s on 7th, expressed heartbreak on behalf of his staff. “This event has been traumatic for all of us,” he said. “Our thoughts and prayers go to the families of those killed and the injured.”

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