TAMPA, FL (MAY 24, 2025) – – Tampa Police arrested 25-year-old Jefry Maldonado Hernandez (white male, 9/10/1999), charging him in connection to a fatal traffic crash that occurred at Busch Blvd. and Armenia Ave. early Saturday morning, that resulted in the death of an adult male.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an innocent man this morning, and our Victims Advocate will work to aid his grieving family as they navigate this incredible loss,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “This was not an accident, but the result of a driver’s criminal actions and reckless decision to operate a vehicle while impaired. DUI is a completely avoidable act that destroys lives. We are committed to standing with this family throughout their profound loss, ensuring a thorough investigation and the pursuit of justice.”
On May 24, 2025, at approximately 3:23 am, Maldonado Hernandez was driving a black Dodge Ram pick-up truck eastbound on W Busch Blvd, approaching N Armenia Ave.
At the same time, a green Lexus RX300, being driven by an adult male in his early 60s, was stopped facing southbound on N Armenia Ave at W Busch Blvd. Once the light changed to green for the Lexus, it continued southbound crossing over W Busch Blvd.
Witnesses informed investigators that Maldonado Hernandez sped up to “beat the light” when it changed to yellow. Evidence suggests Maldonado Hernandez continued eastbound on W Busch Blvd and ran the red light at a high rate of speed, crashing into the Lexus and flipping the Ram onto its side.
The driver of the Lexus suffered traumatic injuries from the collision. Although he was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for critical care, at 4:06 am, he was pronounced deceased.
Officers observed Maldonado Hernandez to have obvious signs of impairment as the investigation unfolded. Maldonado Hernandez was arrested and charged with Vehicular Homicide, DUI Manslaughter, and Driving Without a Valid Drivers License (with Death or Serious Bodily Injury) and was transported to Orient Road Jail.
The roadways that were closed to allow for the investigation and powerline repairs have since reopened.