Wrong-way driver killed in crash in Plant City
A wrong-way driver died on Monday night after colliding with a semi-truck on Alexander Street.
A blue Volkswagen Passat was traveling south in the northbound lanes of North Alexander Street at approximately 11:48 p.m. Monday evening. It struck a northbound tractor-trailer combination vehicle, according to Plant City Police Department.
Plant City Fire Rescue said the male driver of the Volkswagen sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The male driver of the tractor-trailer did not have any injuries. There were no passengers in either vehicle.
At this time, officers do not know why the Volkswagen was being driven on the wrong side of the road. PCPD is investigating if outside factors contributed to the crash. There are currently no charges pending for the driver of the tractor-trailer.
The names of both drivers will be released once next of kin has been notified.
This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact Officer C. Lopez at 813-757-9200.
Updates to come.
Sansone Park Shelter to be replaced
The existing structure by the basketball courts at Mike E. Sansone Park is in need of replacement. The structure was built in 1996 and the steel beams are severely rusted.
After doing research for a replacement the city found a quote for purchasing and installing a new shelter and slab to be $28,393.60 via an existing contract Rep Services, Inc. has with Clay County. Since the project was not anticipated, the CIP budget was adjusted for $36,000 to cover the demolition expense, new shelter installation expense, add an electrical run for a security light and to provide 10% contingency for any unforeseen expenses.
The Procurement Manager analyzed the contract between Rep Services, Inc. and Clay County and decided it would be suitable for Plant City’s use, which saved much time and effort in developing bid specifications. Demolition and disposal of the existing structure and slab will be coordinated by General Services.
The city commission voted Monday evening to approve the Sansone structure replacement.
Routine beverage compliance check
Detectives from SIU conducted a routine beverage compliance check on April 18 at 10 local businesses. The checks were done in coordination with the Division of Alcoholic Beverage & Tobacco to monitor businesses with liquor licenses. A Florida Southern College student completing his internship with Plant City Police Department assisted in the checks.
Of the 10 businesses, the only one not in compliance was the Citgo Store at 504 N. Plant Ave. The clerk, Anand Rabhay, was arrested and issued a notice to appear before the court for selling a six-pack of beer to the underage intern. Rabhay was previously arrested in 2017 for the same violation. The ABT has been notified of the establishment repeatedly being in noncompliance.
Nearly 300 cats seized from Plant City rescue
Hillsborough County’s animal control staff raided Fur ’N Feather Farm on Bruton Road after obtaining a warrant to seize approximately 300 cats. The warrant also allowed them to seize 100 exotic birds at the shelter and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was called in to assist with the birds’ health. After review, the FFWCC determined there were no grounds to remove them.
An anonymous complaint from a veterinarian that had treated many of the animals was called in to animal control, alerting them to the issue. A judge approved a deal between the county and Fur ’N Feathers to give custody of the cats to the county.
Jean Wilkes, president of Fur ’N Feathers, also agreed to permanently close her shelter, though she could still face charges for neglect as Animal Control Division forward the case to the State Attorney’s Office.