News Releases are to be used for informational purposes only. Information provided should not be relied upon for any type of legal action.

Car Smashes Through Gas Station, Pinning Victim

For Immediate Release : Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Release Number: 23-096

Date

Location

Car Smashes Through Gas Station, Pinning Victim

A driver faces charges for driving through a gas station and pinning a victim walking into the store.

On June 20, 2023, at 12:24 a.m., a Kia Forte driven by Anthony Katosh, 37, slammed into the front doors of the Travel Centers of America located at 11706 Tampa Gateway Boulevard in Seffner. At the time of the crash, a pedestrian was entering the store and was hit by a vehicle driving at a high rate of speed, pinning him between the driver's side door of the vehicle and a metal structure. Deputies responded and began to provide aid along with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. Both the driver and the victim were transported to Tampa General Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

"The footage of the car smashing through this business and straight into a victim is jarring, to say the least," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "It is an absolute miracle that the person pinned by the car did not sustain more serious injuries, and we're glad to hear he will be ok."

Throughout the investigation, detectives determined the crash was not accidental and charged Anthony Katosh with Criminal Mischief $1,000 or More. 

The investigation continues, and any new information will be coming from the Public Affairs Office.