TAMPA, Fla. – Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers, along with Tampa Police Department officers, successfully shut down a planned street takeover event in Tampa early this morning.
Acting on advance information, law enforcement responded to three locations where the takeover was expected to occur: Busch Blvd. and Florida Ave., the Temple Terrace Winn Dixie on U.S. Hwy 301, and Fletcher Ave. and Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
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Large crowds and vehicles had gathered at each location. Officers were able to prevent any street racing or dangerous driving at the first two locations. However, at Fletcher Ave. and Bruce B. Downs Blvd., several vehicles engaged in street takeover activities and stunt driving.
Troopers pursued the vehicles, resulting in four drivers being charged with felonies, six passengers charged with street racing and takeover violations, four vehicles impounded, and two firearms recovered.
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The successful operation was attributed to proactive intelligence gathering and the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies.
The FHP encourages the public to report any street racing or takeover activity by calling *FHP or 911. Tips and information about upcoming events can be emailed to StopRacing@flhsmv.gov.
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