By Mark Price
The Charlotte Observer
TAMPA, Fla. — Pandemonium was recorded from above as state troopers and deputies closed in on an illegal street takeover that drew hundreds to an intersection near Tampa, Florida.
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It happened just before midnight on Saturday, Aug. 31, in Riverview and the Florida Highway Patrol reports four cars were impounded and three guns seized. Riverview is about a 20-mile drive southeast from downtown Tampa.
“The event, which was organized via social media, drew a crowd of hundreds and a large number of participating vehicles,” the Florida Highway Patrol reported in a news release.
“Participants closed an intersection to do donuts, drift, and engage in other knowingly illegal and reckless driving activities.”
Ten people were arrested, including drivers and their passengers, officials say.
Aviation unit video shared on social media shows helpless motorists were trapped in gridlock during the event, which included a volatile mix of swirling cars, running pedestrians and exploding fireworks.
The cars are seen sliding within feet of pedestrians, some of whom stood in the middle of the intersection as drivers did doughnuts around them.
Things turned even more chaotic as law enforcement moved in and participants scrambled to escape arrest, video shows.
The 10 arrests included males and females ranging in age from 17 to 29, officials said. All are from Florida, including some who traveled approximately 60 miles from Haines City.
Charges included:
- Unlawful racing on highway while engaged in coordinated street takeover
- Knowingly riding as a passenger in unlawful racing or street takeover
- Possession of cannabis, less than 20 grams
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Fleeing to elude
“Street racing and roadway takeovers are incredibly dangerous. They obstruct normal traffic flow and can prevent or deter emergency response, potentially putting lives at risk,” the Florida Highway Patrol said in the release.
“Individuals taking part in events such as this can be charged with spectating, riding as a passenger, and, if driving, unlawful racing, in addition to many other charges regarding the reckless endangerment of others while they are behind the wheel.”
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