On Saturday morning, deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting that a car had plowed into a commercial building in the 8100 block of West Waters Avenue in Tampa. When officers arrived, they found a vehicle lodged directly inside a pawn shop, leaving significant structural damage to the storefront.
Driver’s Account and Immediate Response
The driver, a 74‑year‑old woman, told deputies that she inadvertently pressed the accelerator instead of the brake while attempting to park. Paramedics quickly assessed her condition and transported her to a nearby hospital. Officials confirmed that her injuries are non‑life‑threatening.
No Injuries to Customers or Employees
At the time of the impact, the pawn shop was open for business. Law enforcement confirmed that no customers or employees were inside the store when the crash occurred, and therefore no one else was hurt.
Investigation Ongoing
Hillsborough County deputies are reviewing dispatch records and incident statements to determine the full circumstances of the crash. As of now, authorities have not announced whether any traffic citations or criminal charges will be filed against the driver. The exact cost of repairing the storefront has also not been disclosed.
Community Impact
While the incident caused noticeable damage to a local business, the swift response of emergency personnel helped prevent further harm. The pawn shop’s owners are expected to assess repair needs in the coming days, and the community is reminded of the importance of careful driving, especially for older motorists who may face challenges with vehicle controls.
Safety Reminder
Local officials encourage drivers to remain vigilant when navigating tight parking spaces and to seek assistance if they feel uncertain about operating a vehicle. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor traffic safety concerns throughout Tampa and the surrounding areas.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
