The Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday new charges against Silas Sampson, 22, the driver accused of killing four people in a crash in Ybor City.
Prosecutors say toxicology results from the Florida Highway Patrol confirmed Sampson had marijuana in his system and a blood alcohol level above the legal limit at the time of the incident.
Sampson now faces four counts of DUI manslaughter, along with multiple felonies related to reckless driving and fleeing law enforcement.
Investigators report that Sampson was speeding on 7th Avenue when he swerved to avoid a turning vehicle, lost control, and struck a crowd outside The Copper Shaker and Bradley’s. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the crash and showed Sampson attempting to flee on foot immediately afterward.
“Four people have lost their lives, and several others are still fighting to recover from devastating injuries because of this defendant’s choices,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez. “We will prosecute this defendant to the fullest extent of the law to deliver justice to these victims and their families.”
Sampson remains in custody without bond as he awaits trial.
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