TAMPA, Fla. — The man charged in the vehicular homicide death of four people early Saturday morning at an Ybor City nightclub will make his first appearance at 10 a.m. today, officials said.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is investigating a vehicle crash into a business early Saturday morning on Ybor City’s famous 7th Avenue that left four people dead and 13 others injured.
FHP said the 13 injuries range from critical and life-threatening to minor.
Two are in critical condition, two were admitted to the hospital then discharged, two were treated on scene and not transported to the hospital, and seven were listed in stable condition.
WATCH: Blake Phillips gives the latest on scene
Troopers said the department’s Air Service unit was monitoring a vehicle driving recklessly at high speeds on I-275 around 12:40 a.m. They said this was the same vehicle seen street racing earlier on Hillsborough Avenue near 22nd Street.
WATCH: “A SENSELESS TRAGEDY” | TAMPA POLICE AND FHP PRESS CONFERENCE AFTER CAR CRASH KILLS 4 IN YBOR
Authorities said the driver exited the interstate at Doyle Carlton Drive in downtown Tampa. Five minutes later, Tampa police officers and FHP troopers located it near Palm Avenue and Nebraska Avenue.
A trooper began pursuing the vehicle and attempted to disable it with a PIT maneuver, but was unsuccessful.
WATCH: Tampa Police releases helicopter footage and CCTV
WARNING: Distressing video
Tampa Police released helicopter footage and CCTV. This video contains disturbing scenes, we paused the video before the car makes contact with the business. Viewer discretion is advised.
Officials said the driver, who was armed, then sped off at a high rate of speed toward Nebraska Avenue, before continuing east on 7th Avenue.
FHP said its troopers ended their pursuit as the driver approached 7th Avenue.
According to the Tampa Police Department (TPD), the driver eventually lost control and crashed into Bradley’s on 7th. The vehicle hit more than a dozen people outside on the popular gay bar’s patio.
WATCH: Community reacts to crash
Officials say three people died at the scene. A fourth victim died at the hospital. Of the 13 injured victims, one is hospitalized in critical condition, while eight others are in stable condition. Two victims who received only minor injuries declined treatment on scene. All 15 of the victims are adults.
FHP revised its pursuits policy last year, giving troopers more discretion to initiate chases. A trooper has to determine if the suspect is actively fleeing a law enforcement officers or has previously committed a forcible felony. When it comes to ending a pursuit, a reason listed is, “an active presence of pedestrians or other vulnerable populations in the immediate or foreseeable area.”
WATCH: Kyle McGivern reports at the hospital
Officers detained the driver at the scene and identified him as 22-year-old Silas Sampson. He was taken to the Hillsborough County Jail.
WATCH: Kylie McGivern has more on Silas Sampson
WATCH: 22-year-old Silas Sampson seems calm as Florida Highway Patrol troopers bring him to Orient Road Jail
He is charged with four felony counts of vehicular homicide and four felony counts of aggravated fleeing to elude serious bodily injury.
Sampson was previously cited for speeding on the interstate less than two months ago, on Sep. 12. He was driving 99 mph in a 70 mph zone, according to court documents.
His first appearance in court will be on Sunday at 11:30 a.m.
“What happened this morning was a senseless tragedy, our hearts are with the loved ones of the victims and all those who were impacted,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “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.”
Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR) released a statement with photos on X, saying “Early this morning, dozens of #TampasBravest responded to a tragic multi-casualty incident. Crews worked tirelessly to triage, treat, and transport those injured. We ask that you keep the victims, their families, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time – as well as all the first responders who gave their all in the effort to help save lives.”
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor also released a statement on her Facebook page, calling the crash “devastating.”
According to St. Pete Pride, there will be a candlelight vigil Saturday at 7 p.m. at Bradley’s. People are asked to bring candles to “remember, reflected, and stand in solidarity with our community.”
There are already flowers in front of the business, honoring the victims.
This is an ongoing investigation. Tampa Bay 28 will be following this story and provide any updates as they become available. 
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