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Street racer loses control and plows into Florida gay bar, killing four people

Silas Sampson, 22, apparently lost control of his vehicle and smashed into Bradley’s, striking a dozen people who were on the patio, according to Tampa Police.

Three people were pronounced dead at the scene. A fourth succumbed to their injuries at a local hospital.

At least 11 others were injured in the crash, with one in critical condition.

The crash is under investigation, and Silas was detained at the scene.

“What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy, our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said in a statement.

“Reckless driving put innocent lives in danger. The Tampa Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families.”

The tragic incident unfolded around 12:30 a.m. when Tampa police’s Air Service noticed two cars apparently racing on Hillsborough Avenue.

The cars split directions, and officers pursued the one driven by Sampson as he allegedly drove at a high rate of speed, Lee explained at a press conference.

Cops attempted both a traffic stop and a pit maneuver, but Sampson continued racing until he lost control of the car and smashed into the bar.

All the victims were over the age of 20, Lee said.

“They were out in Ybor having a good time, expecting to go home safely, and a careless, reckless driver takes everybody’s lives in his hands and just ended this night in a situation that’s never going to be the same for these individuals,” said Lee.

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Florida Highway Patrol Sergeant Steve Gaskins claims cops had “backed off” their pursuit of Sampson before the deadly crash.

Sampson was arrested at the scene and faces vehicular manslaughter charges, with additional felony charges expected to follow.

The FHP is investigating the incident.

The owners of Bradley’s said their ‘hearts are broken’ following the tragedy.

“This tragedy has struck at the heart of Tampa’s LGBTQ+ community,” they said in a statement obtained by the Daily Mail.

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