Plant City driver arrested after fleeing crash and second collision

Deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested a 36-year-old man on Tuesday afternoon following a series of events that included a multi-vehicle collision, a high-speed escape, and a foot chase in Plant City. The incident began just before 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Gallagher Road and West Knights Griffin Road, where investigators report a driver failed to yield at a stop sign.

The initial impact involved another vehicle and several TECO utility poles. According to the sheriff's office, the crash resulted in downed power lines that remained live, sparking a small fire. Bodycam footage from the scene captured a deputy noting that the road would likely need to be closed due to the electrical hazard and the flames.

While other officers investigated the initial collision, Brayan Mayen, the driver involved in the first crash, fled the scene on foot. He quickly located a vehicle being driven by a family member, hopped into the car, and drove away from the intersection, according to the HCSO.

Mayen continued his escape northbound on Gallagher Road. However, his flight came to an abrupt end when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a ditch near Franklin Road. Following the second collision, Mayen exited the car and ran through a nearby residential yard to avoid capture.

Deputies pursued Mayen on foot and caught him after a brief chase. Bodycam video shows an officer approaching the suspect with a taser deployed. The deputy ordered Mayen to get on the ground, remain still, and place his hands behind his back. Mayen complied with the instructions and was taken into custody.

The sheriff's office charged Mayen with two felony counts and additional offenses. Among the specific charges listed is a second conviction for driving under the influence. He has since been released from custody on bond.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the extent of any injuries sustained by individuals involved in either of the two crashes. It remains unclear whether the family member who drove Mayen from the first scene will face any charges in connection with the incident.

The information regarding the arrests and the sequence of events was provided by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. The agency also released bodycam video documenting the interaction between the deputy and Mayen during the final stages of the pursuit.

The incident highlights the potential dangers of fleeing a crash scene, particularly when utility infrastructure is damaged. The closure of the road and the live wires added complexity to the immediate response required by emergency personnel.

Residents in the vicinity of Gallagher Road and Franklin Road experienced the disruption as deputies managed the two crash sites and the subsequent foot pursuit. The case remains open as authorities continue to process the details of the arrests and the physical damage caused by the vehicles.