Shocking Crash: Suspect Plows SUV Into Man in Wheelchair in Tampa — POLICE UPDATE

Seminole Heights (33603) – A shocking scene unfolded in Tampa when police said a suspect deliberately plowed an SUV into a man in a wheelchair, striking him so hard that the chair became lodged in the vehicle’s grill. The crash happened near Nebraska Avenue and Osborne Avenue in Seminole Heights, leaving the victim critically injured and rushed to Tampa General Hospital. Witnesses described the horrifying sight of the mangled wheelchair pinned to the front of the SUV as the driver attempted to flee. Officers quickly arrested the suspect a block away and confirmed the assault was intentional. A full investigation is now underway.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Tampa man in wheelchair struck, chair stuck in SUV’s grill

• IMPACT: Victim critically injured, driver arrested after fleeing short distance

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “This was an intentional act of violence.” – Tampa Police Department

• ACTION: Avoid Nebraska Ave area; report tips to police hotline immediately

Impact of Local News

1. Precise Location:
   Seminole Heights (33603) – Near Nebraska Avenue & Osborne Avenue intersection

2. Community Connection:
   “We were horrified — the wheelchair was mangled in the front of the SUV.”
   – Carla Simmons, Seminole Heights Diner owner

3. Visual Proof:
   

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This is Tampa’s second violent vehicle assault this month, raising safety concerns for vulnerable residents

• DOCUMENTED EVIDENCE:
  

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » Hillsborough Victim Assistance Program: 813-272-6472
  » Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay: 1-800-873-TIPS

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:
  “If you witnessed the crash or have footage, please come forward immediately.”
  – Chief Lee Bercaw, Tampa Police Department

Community Pulse

“VOTE: Should Florida impose harsher penalties for using vehicles as weapons?
👍 Yes – protect the public 👎 No – current laws are enough
Sound off in comments – lawmakers are watching”

Update Log

• 6:55 PM: Victim rushed to Tampa General Hospital, listed in critical condition

• 7:10 PM: Suspect arrested after abandoning SUV a block away

• 7:30 PM: Police confirm crash was “deliberate act,” investigation ongoing