Four Dead, Thirteen Injured After Vehicle Plows Into Crowd in Ybor City

Tampa, FL (November 8, 2025) – Tampa Police are investigating a fatal crash involving a vehicle and multiple pedestrians in the 1500 block of East 7th Avenue in Ybor City early Saturday morning outside Bradley’s on 7th.

According to police, the incident began around 12:40 a.m. when Tampa Police Air Service observed a vehicle driving recklessly on I-275. The driver continued at a high rate of speed, exiting the interstate at Doyle Carlton Drive. The same vehicle had earlier been seen racing on Hillsborough Avenue near 22nd Street.

Around 12:45 a.m., Tampa Police and the Florida Highway Patrol located the vehicle near Palm Avenue and Nebraska Avenue. Troopers attempted a pursuit and an unsuccessful PIT maneuver before disengaging as the driver continued eastbound on 7th Avenue. Moments later, the vehicle lost control and crashed into a business, striking more than a dozen people who were outside.

Tampa Police have released helicopter and CCTV footage showing Sampson driving southbound on I-275, the PIT maneuver initiated by the Florida Highway Patrol, and the final moments before the vehicle, a silver Toyota Camry, came to rest in the outdoor patio area of Bradley’s on 7th.

As a result of Sampson’s actions, four adults were killed and 13 others sustained injuries ranging from critical to minor. The total victim count has increased from 15 to 17, as two additional victims later self-transported to a local hospital.

The driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson of Dade City, Florida, was detained at the scene.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw stated, “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 Chief Lee Bercaw. “Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. The Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families.”

The Florida Highway Patrol is leading the crash investigation. Sampson is facing multiple charges of vehicular homicide, along with several other pending charges.

The Florida Highway Patrol will identify the deceased once next-of-kin notifications are complete. Current victim status:

• Four deceased
• Two in critical condition
• Two admitted and since discharged
• Two treated on scene, not transported
• Seven in stable condition

At this time, investigators have found no evidence indicating the crash was targeted toward any individuals or businesses.

Tampa Police ask the community to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts as the investigation continues. The Florida Highway Patrol remains the lead agency and will release additional updates in coordination with the State Attorney’s Office.