One person was killed and a Largo police officer was seriously injured in a crash overnight. 

  • Largo officer seriously injured, one person killed in crash
  • Officer was responding to emergency call when crash occurred
  • Crash happened in area of 3660 East Bay Drive

Officials said Officer Thomas Dziamba was responding to an emergency call, with the lights and siren activated, when the collision occurred in the area of 3660 East Bay Drive. 

A Jeep, driven by 36-year-old Christopher Griffin, entered East Bay Drive into the path of the police cruiser, witnesses said. 

Officials said Griffin was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from his vehicle. He was pronounced dead on scene. 

Neighbors of Griffin's were crushed to hear it was their friend who lost his life in the crash. They say he was helpful and kind. 

"He kept to himself. He was quiet, but he was always so friendly. I just hope he's remembered as that," neighbor Shauna Daucher said. "I always knew I had him underneath me if I needed anything. He's told me that before. It's going to be sad."

Officer Dziamba, who has worked for the Largo PD for three years, was transported to the hospital with a serious injury. Officials say he is now at home and is expected to make a full recovery. 

A police K9 in the cruiser with Dziamba was not injured in the crash. 

Officials say alcohol influence is being investigated in the crash. Largo's Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating.