VIDEO: 4 arrested after street racing causes ‘chaotic scene’ in Tampa, HCSO says

Jordan Bowen

TAMPA, Fla. - Four people were arrested after traveling from Lee County to participate in an organized street racing event in Tampa, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

According to law enforcement, deputies responded to the Cragmont Drive and Princess Palm Avenue area just before 1 a.m. on Sunday.

READ: FHP looking for driver who hit and killed Zephyrhills man

Officials say deputies saw a chaotic scene with multiple cars engaging in reckless behavior. A video from HCSO shows people setting off multicolored fireworks and smoke filling the area.

All four of the people inside a 2022 Dodge Challenger were arrested, according to authorities.

<div>Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office</div>
Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office

HCSO says the following people were identified and arrested:

  • 20-year-old Ar'moni Ferrell

  • 20-year-old Caden Turner

  • 20-year-old Kylie O'Brien

  • 22-year-old Samuel Orvil

After searching the Charger, deputies say they uncovered Roman candles and video recording equipment.

"Your license can be taken away. Your car will be impounded. It's illegal to attend a street takeover," Street Racing Kills Founder Lili Trujillo Puckett said.

Puckett knows the dangers of street racing first-hand after her daughter Valentina was killed in a street race in 2014. It's why she started the organization Street Racing Kills, where she speaks to young students about the dangers and offers a Reckless Driving Course through the courts for reckless driver offenders.

So far, more than 1,000 drivers across the country have completed the course since it was launched in 2022.

<div>Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office</div>
Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office

"We love what we do. We've had people who say I was going to go street racing tonight but I'm not going to do it anymore because this class really impacted me. I really feel for you. I'm so sorry for the loss of your daughter," Puckett said.

A 2006 Chrysler 300 was also seized after its driver and passengers took off on foot, according to HCSO.

Tire tracks and rubber scraps could still be seen at the intersection where the takeover took place.

"These individuals learned the hard way that Hillsborough County is not the place to travel to commit crimes. We are one step ahead and diligent in our efforts to keep our community safe," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Street racing is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous, those who choose to engage in illegal activities here will face the inevitable consequences."

The four people charged have since been released. Under the law, each could face fines between $500 and $1000 and have their license revoked for one year.

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