Two dead following car versus pedestrian collision

Sunday, August 17, 2008

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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- Two people are dead following a car versus pedestrian collision on Interstate 4 east of McIntosh Road in Hillsborough County early Sunday afternoon.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 2002 Buick being driven by Michael A. Redish was traveling west in the outside lane behind a large 2003 International tractor truck being driven by Chance Richard Leonard.

Another vehicle was pulled over in the emergency lane facing west, and two pedestrians were standing behind it.

According to the FHP, Leonard abruptly applied his brakes so that he could enter the emergency lane to assist the pedestrians. Redish swerved into emergency lane to avoid crashing into the truck being driven by Leonard. Redish was unable to see the pedestrians and the vehicle in the emergency lane, as a result he hit both pedestrians before striking the vehicle they were standing behind.

One of the pedestrians, Jessica L. Dailey, 23, of Seminole, died at the scene and the other pedestrian, John L. Bell, 31, of Pinellas Park, died at Tampa General Hospital. Redish also suffered serious injuries as a result of the collision.

Charges are pending.