The suspect in the deadly crash on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge is now facing additional charges for his crimes earlier in the evening. An accomplice is also facing charges.
On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at approximately 10:20 p.m., HCSO Auto Theft Task Force members observed Leosvany Arias Roman, 22, while in the county driving a white Ford Mustang reported stolen by the Tampa Police Department. In an attempt to arrest Roman, deputies approached him after he parked in front of a business located at 2919 West Columbus Drive within city limits. Starting the car up, he made the wrong decision to ram two HCSO vehicles and fled the area.
"This criminal had no regard for human life. Our deputies, facing danger, had to jump out of the way of a man they feared would run them over to get away," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "The additional charges he faces will ensure the only road he's ever on again is the one that leads straight to jail."
Leosvany Arias Roman is facing charges from HCSO for his crimes in Hillsborough County. His driver's license photo is attached. Media is advised to contact the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office for a booking photo of Roman.
A second suspect, Mohammed Ali Pujol, 30, sitting in a silver Mercedes sedan parked next to the white Mustang, placed his vehicle into drive and sped towards an HCSO deputy who managed to jump out of the way. Tampa Police Officers assisted by attempting a traffic stop and ultimately used stop sticks on the 3300 block of North Nebraska Avenue and arrested Pujol. He, too, is facing several felony charges from HCSO for his crimes.
This is still an active investigation. Any new information will come from the HCSO Public Affairs Office.
