4 dead, 13 injured after street racer slams into crowd at Tampa bar

A devastating incident unfolded in Tampa, Florida, early Saturday morning when a speeding driver lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a bar, resulting in four fatalities and injuring more than a dozen others. The Tampa Police Department reported that the 22-year-old suspect, who had been involved in street racing earlier, was spotted driving recklessly on the highway just before 1:00 AM local time. Despite attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to stop the vehicle using a PIT maneuver—a controversial technique designed to halt fleeing cars—the driver continued to speed uncontrollably. The chase ended tragically when the car veered off course and plowed into the outdoor patio of Bradley’s, a popular LGBTQ bar. Three victims died instantly, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Among the 13 injured, two remain in critical condition, seven are stable, and two have already been discharged. Authorities have not released the names of the victims. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw condemned the incident as a ‘senseless tragedy,’ emphasizing the dangers of reckless driving. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor expressed her grief on social media, calling the event ‘devastating’ and highlighting the profound impact on the community. An investigation is ongoing, with the suspect currently in custody.