Tampa Tragedy: 5 Things to Know About Driver Silas Sampson Behind Fatal Crash

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A devastating crash in Tampa's Ybor City neighborhood has left four people dead and 11 others injured. The incident occurred on Saturday morning, when a driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was involved in a high-speed chase. Authorities have confirmed that Sampson's vehicle was observed street racing on Hillsborough Avenue prior to the crash. The chase, which involved the Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol, ended in tragedy when Sampson lost control of his vehicle and struck multiple pedestrians. According to eyewitnesses and authorities, the crash occurred at around 12:45 am on East 7th Avenue. Four people died at the scene, with a fifth victim later succumbing to their injuries in the hospital. Eight others were treated for their injuries, while two received minor injuries but declined treatment. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw described the incident as a 'senseless tragedy,' saying that 'reckless driving put innocent lives in danger.' Sampson, who has been identified as a black male, faces vehicular manslaughter charges and additional felony charges are expected. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash.