Motorcyclist Killed in Fiery Tarpon Springs Crash
On Friday September 29, 2017, at approximately 8:14pm, the Tarpon Springs Police Department (TSPD) responded to a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on U.S. Hwy 19 at the intersection of Mango St.
Upon officers arriving on scene, they observed a 2018 black Chevrolet sports utility vehicle and a 2005 Yamaha motorcycle, both vehicles were on fire and in the second lane closest to the median. A 2012 silver Ford Mustang was also observed on the shoulder off the roadway.
The investigation so far determined that the Yamaha motorcycle was traveling southbound on U.S. Hwy 19 and struck the rear end section of the Ford Mustang, after the Ford Mustang had made a legal u turn from northbound U.S. Hwy 19 to southbound U.S. Hwy 19.
This impact caused 43 year old Barrett Richard Phelps of Tarpon Springs to be ejected off the motorcycle into the center median. The motorcycle stayed in the travel lane and was struck by the Chevrolet SUV. Both vehicles then came to a rest and ignited both vehicles on fire.
All occupants of the Chevrolet SUV, two adults and three children were able to escape with no injuries. The driver and sole occupant of the Ford Mustang sustained minor injuries.
Phelps was transported to Florida Hospital of North Pinellas, where he was pronounced deceased at approximately 9:02pm.
This crash is still under investigation. Anyone with information or that witnessed this crash is asked to contact Officer Christine Brinker or Sgt. Frank Ruggiero at (727) 938-2849.