TAMPA, Fla — The city of Tampa is mourning a heartbreaking tragedy that has left four people dead and more than a dozen injured after a devastating crash in Ybor City over the weekend. According to court documents released Monday, the victims have been identified as Christina Richards, 25; Shalisa Johnson, 41; Sherman Jones, 53; and Marlon Collins, 53 — all pedestrians struck when a speeding vehicle plowed onto a crowded sidewalk early Saturday morning.
Authorities say the crash unfolded during a high-speed police pursuit involving 22-year-old Silas Sampson, who allegedly refused to stop for officers. The pursuit ended in horror as Sampson’s vehicle lost control and slammed into a group of people gathered along Ybor City’s lively 7th Avenue, a popular nightlife district. The impact was catastrophic — three victims died at the scene, and the fourth, Marlon Collins, later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital despite desperate efforts to save him.
In total, 17 people were struck in the collision. Thirteen survivors suffered varying degrees of injury, with at least two listed in critical condition. Officials say several victims have since been released from the hospital, while others continue to recover as families, friends, and neighbors gather to offer comfort and prayer. The tragedy has shaken Ybor City to its core, turning a night of celebration into one of sorrow and disbelief.
The victims are being remembered not for how their lives ended, but for the love and joy they shared. Christina Richards was known for her energy and compassion; Shalisa Johnson, for her devotion as a mother and loyal friend; Sherman Jones, for his humor and generosity; and Marlon Collins, for his gentle heart and deep care for others. Their stories have become symbols of light in the midst of darkness — reminders of the fragile beauty of life.
Community members have begun organizing vigils and memorials across Tampa to honor the victims and support those still healing. Flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes now line parts of 7th Avenue as residents pay tribute to the lives lost too soon. City leaders have called for unity and justice, urging an end to reckless driving and the violence that has repeatedly plagued Ybor City’s streets.
Silas Sampson faces multiple counts of vehicular homicide and aggravated fleeing with serious bodily injury. He remains in custody at the Hillsborough County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court Thursday morning. As the community mourns, Tampa vows to remember — and to seek justice — for Christina Richards, Shalisa Johnson, Sherman Jones, and Marlon Collins, whose lives will never be forgotten.
