At least four people lost their lives and eleven others were injured after a police chase ended in a devastating crash outside Bradley’s on 7th, a well-known gay bar in Tampa’s Ybor City early Saturday morning.
According to Tampa police, the pursuit began around 12:45 a.m. when officers noticed a car speeding on I-275 that was reportedly involved in street racing earlier that night. Police attempted a pit maneuver as the vehicle exited the highway but called it off due to the heavy crowds in the nightlife district.
Moments later, the driver lost control near 7th Avenue and slammed into the bar’s outdoor patio, which was packed with people. Witnesses described scenes of chaos — overturned tables, screams, and bystanders rushing to help the wounded.
“It felt like an explosion,” one witness recalled. “Everyone was just sitting outside having a good time, and suddenly this car came barreling through.”
The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and now faces several felony charges, including vehicular homicide. Tampa police say more charges are expected as the investigation moves forward.
Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance and dashcam video to determine if officers followed proper pursuit procedures.
The tragedy has deeply shaken the Ybor City community and reignited debate over street racing and the safety of police pursuits in busy entertainment areas.