Ten individuals are now facing criminal charges following an incident in Hillsborough County that the Florida Highway Patrol has described as a “coordinated street takeover event.”
On Saturday night, a large gathering took place at an intersection, causing significant disruption to other drivers in the area. The event was organized through social media and attracted a considerable crowd.
Investigators have chosen not to disclose the precise location, although residents in the South Fork community in Riverview have provided information to FOX 13.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, drivers engaged in various dangerous and unlawful driving behaviors, including donuts and drifting.
The following suspects were apprehended by troopers, in collaboration with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office:
- Jakob Bryan, 20, Land O’Lakes
- Jakiya Burr, 24, Lake Wales
- Jaewon Foster, 29, Haines City
- Ethan Marton, 20, Holiday
- Marquis Pinkins, 29, Haines City
- Alex Rodriguez-Lazu, 20, Lakeland
- Ramon Santiago, 20, Lakeland
- Grant Watson, 18, Wesley Chapel
- 17-year-old male, Wesley Chapel
- 17-year-old male, Tampa
The suspects are facing a range of charges, including unlawful racing on a highway and drug possession. Additionally, three guns were seized by law enforcement, and four vehicles were impounded.
“Street racing and roadway takeovers are incredibly dangerous,” FHP said in a statement. “They obstruct normal traffic flow and can prevent or deter emergency response, potentially putting lives at risk. 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.”
