TAMPA, FL. (January 9, 2025) – Tampa Police have arrested a man in connection with a fatal crash that occurred at the intersection of E Bougainvillea Avenue and McKinley Drive.
Gary Manist, age 67, has been charged with one felony count of Vehicular Homicide.
On Friday, January 3, 2025, at approximately 9:44 a.m., officers responded to a multi-vehicle crash involving a Kia Sorento, a Dodge Ram 2500, and a Kia Forte. According to roadway evidence and witness accounts, the Sorento was attempting a left turn from northbound McKinley Drive onto westbound Bougainvillea Avenue. Witnesses reported hearing the Ram 2500, driven by Manist, accelerating as the traffic light was changing.
The Ram 2500 and Kia Forte were traveling southbound through the intersection. The driver of the Forte took evasive action to avoid striking the Sorento, however the Ram 2500 collided with the Sorento. The Forte left the roadway and struck a light pole, before coming to rest on the southwest corner of the intersection.
The driver of the Sorento, an adult female in her mid-20s, was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.
The driver of the Forte, an adult male, was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released. Manist and his passenger were also taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators determined that excessive speed was a key factor in the crash. Evidence revealed that the Dodge Ram 2500 was traveling over 100 MPH, more than 55 MPH above the posted speed limit, immediately prior to the collision.
On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, Tampa Police, in collaboration with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Manist at his home in Pasco County without incident. He is being held in the Pasco County Jail on the charge of Vehicular Homicide.