Four dead after street racer crashes into Florida gay bar during police pursuit
– 2 min read
A devastating crash in Tampa’s Ybor City district has left four people dead and at least 13 others injured after a street racer fleeing police lost control and slammed into a popular LGBTQ+ bar in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The incident occurred just after 12.30am outside Bradley’s on 7th, a well-known gay bar and community hub. According to Tampa Police, 22-year-old Silas Sampson was spotted street racing along Hillsborough Avenue before officers attempted to intercept him. Despite efforts to stop the vehicle using a PIT manoeuvre - a tactic designed to force a fleeing car to spin out - Sampson continued at high speed into downtown Tampa.
Moments later, Sampson’s vehicle veered off course and ploughed into the crowded patio of Bradley’s, striking more than a dozen people. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Two individuals remain in critical condition, with others receiving treatment for various injuries.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw described the event as a “senseless tragedy,” stating, “Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. Our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted.”
Sampson, a resident of Dade City, was arrested at the scene and is currently being held without bond. He faces four counts of vehicular homicide and multiple charges of aggravated fleeing to elude with serious bodily injury or death.
The owners of Bradley’s released a heartfelt statement, saying, “This tragedy has struck at the heart of Tampa’s LGBTQ+ community. Bradley’s on 7th is more than just a nightclub - it is a sanctuary, a space of celebration, love, and chosen family for countless people across Tampa Bay.”
The crash occurred just minutes before a scheduled drag performance, with the venue packed with patrons enjoying the night. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and horror as tables and chairs were thrown aside and bodies scattered across the patio.
The Florida Highway Patrol has taken the lead in the investigation, and officials have confirmed there is no evidence to suggest the bar or its patrons were specifically targeted.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor expressed condolences, stating, “Families are grieving, first responders are hurting, and our entire city feels this loss. Our commitment to keeping our community safe has never been stronger.”
Bradley’s on 7th will remain closed until Monday out of respect for the victims and to allow staff time to recover from the traumatic event.
