Four Dead, 11 Injured After Police Chase Ends in Tragic Crash at Tampa’s Ybor City Bar

A high-speed police chase in Tampa, Florida, ended in tragedy early Saturday when a silver sedan fleeing officers slammed into a crowded bar in Ybor City, killing four people and injuring 11 others. The crash occurred outside Bradley’s on 7th, a popular nightlife venue in the historic district known for its tourists and vibrant atmosphere.

How the Incident Unfolded

• Around 12:40 a.m., Tampa Police air patrol spotted the sedan driving recklessly after being involved in street racing in another neighborhood.
• The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) attempted a PIT maneuver—a technique designed to spin out fleeing vehicles—but it failed.
• Troopers disengaged as the car sped toward Ybor City. Moments later, the driver lost control and plowed into pedestrians gathered outside the bar.

Casualties and Injuries

• Three victims died at the scene, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at a hospital.
• Two people remain in critical condition, seven are stable, and two have been discharged.
• Another two victims sustained minor injuries but declined treatment.

Police Response

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw described the crash as a “senseless tragedy,” extending condolences to victims’ families and emphasizing the reckless nature of the driver’s actions.

Suspect Identified

The driver was identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, who was arrested and booked into Hillsborough County Jail. Court documents show he faces:

• Four counts of vehicular homicide
• Four counts of aggravated fleeing or eluding with serious bodily injury or death All charges are classified as first-degree felonies.

Community Impact

The incident has shaken Tampa’s nightlife hub, with residents and business owners expressing grief and outrage. Bradley’s on 7th, a well-known LGBTQ+ venue, was packed with patrons at the time, amplifying the scale of the tragedy.

Authorities continue to investigate the chase and crash, reviewing whether pursuit protocols were followed and how the driver managed to evade capture before the deadly collision.