Driver Escapes on Foot After Crashing During Tampa Pursuit, Troopers Say

Photo credit: Florida Highway Patrol / Information provided to iSkyNews.com

A dramatic Florida Highway Patrol pursuit in Tampa ended when a fleeing driver crashed a Kia Forte on Fowler Avenue and ran from the scene, according to FHP.

By Staff Reporter
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published May 18, 2026

News Brief

• Florida Highway Patrol says a driver fled from a traffic stop in Tampa

• The incident began after the vehicle allegedly ran a red light on Fowler Avenue

• The driver crashed into a curb, disabling the vehicle, then ran away on foot

• Troopers say the suspect, described as a young male, has not been located

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A routine traffic stop in Tampa quickly escalated into a brief pursuit overnight after a driver allegedly fled from Florida Highway Patrol Troopers before they could even approach the vehicle.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Troopers initiated a traffic stop on a Kia Forte after the vehicle reportedly ran a red traffic signal at Fowler Avenue and McKinley Drive.

Dashcam video captured the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) pursuit.

Before Troopers could make contact with the driver, the vehicle suddenly sped away, heading westbound on Fowler Avenue.

FHP says the pursuit came to an abrupt end near North 15th Street, where the driver lost control and struck the curb along the west shoulder, disabling the vehicle.

Despite the crash, the driver — described only as a young male — immediately jumped out and fled the scene on foot.

Troopers searched the area, but the suspect was not apprehended.

Authorities are asking anyone who may have information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts to contact **FHP by dialing 347 (FHP) or **Crime Stoppers at TIPS.

Photos from the scene show the damaged Kia Forte stopped in the roadway with its doors open as Troopers investigated.

This remains an active investigation.

Source: Photos and information provided to iSkyNews.com by FHP.

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