South Florida brothers, survivors of Parkland shooting, injured in deadly Tampa police chase crash

South Florida brothers, survivors of Parkland shooting, injured in deadly Tampa police chase crash

TAMPA, Fla. — Two South Florida brothers who survived the 2018 Parkland school shooting were among the victims injured in a deadly police chase crash that killed three people and injured 13 others Friday night in Ybor City, authorities confirmed.

The brothers, identified as Connor and Brandon Dietrich, were with their best friend, Riley Hancock, when the crash occurred outside Bradley’s Bar in the popular Tampa entertainment district.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash happened after two cars were reportedly racing. Troopers said one of the vehicles backed off, while the other continued speeding down the interstate.

Troopers then pursued the driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, who allegedly refused to stop even after an attempted PIT maneuver. The chase ended when Sampson’s car slammed into a crowd of pedestrians.

Authorities said Brandon Dietrich escaped without serious injuries, but his brother, Connor, suffered severe trauma.

According to a GoFundMe page set up to help with his recovery, Connor remains hospitalized at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa with multiple skull fractures on the left side of his head, a broken shoulder and clavicle, and a lacerated spleen.

The brothers’ parents said both young men were students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School during the 2018 mass shooting that claimed 17 lives.

While they never spoke much about the tragedy, their parents believe that experience helped Brandon stay calm and immediately render aid to his brother after the crash.

Investigator say Sampson was arrested at the scene. Authorities filed additional felony charges against him Tuesday, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday.

Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About The Author
Calvin Hughes

Calvin Hughes

Eight-time Emmy Award-winning newscaster Calvin Hughes anchors WPLG-Local 10’s 4, 5, 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts.