The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a woman after she allowed her 11-year-old child to drive a vehicle, which ended in a crash at a gas station.
On August 16, 2026, at 8:35 p.m., deputies responded to a 7-Eleven on Gordon Road in Riverview after a child crashed a vehicle into a concrete traffic barrier.
Deputies learned that Carribean Myers, 41, allowed her 11-year-old child with autism, while under her supervision and as a passenger, to drive the vehicle from their residence to the gas station. While attempting to stop, the child mistook the gas pedal for the brake and crashed into the barrier.
No one was injured. The vehicle and the building sustained damage.
During the investigation, deputies also discovered that Myers hasn't had a valid driver’s license since July 13, 2026, and had previously allowed her underage children to drive without a valid driver's license.
“Putting an 11-year-old behind the wheel is reckless and could have ended in tragedy,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This mother made a dangerous decision that put her child and everyone around them at risk. Parents have a responsibility to protect their children, not place them in situations that could get them or someone else seriously hurt. We will hold anyone accountable who puts a child in danger.”
Myers was arrested and faces the following charges:
- Child Abuse
- Permitting Unauthorized Minor to Drive.
This remains an active investigation. The Public Affairs Office will provide any updates.
