Deputy Struck During Traffic Stop in Tampa

A Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy was seriously injured after a suspect deliberately ran him over during a routine traffic stop early Friday morning in Tampa. 

Deputy Kalin Hall, a 33-year-old veteran with 11 years of service to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), found himself in a dangerous situation that began as a typical traffic stop. At approximately 12:05 a.m., Hall attempted to pull over a black BMW on Bearss Avenue near Nebraska Avenue. However, the driver of the vehicle had other plans and fled at a high rate of speed, evading the initial traffic stop.

At around 12:25 a.m., Deputy Hall managed to catch up with the vehicle on Plantation Oaks Drive. As Hall exited his patrol car to approach the suspect’s vehicle, the situation took a violent turn. The driver, showing a blatant disregard for law enforcement and human life, deliberately rammed into Deputy Hall, causing a severe injury to his leg.

The impact of the collision left Hall with a fractured leg, necessitating immediate medical attention. He was swiftly transported to Tampa General Hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition. 

Deputy Hall underwent emergency surgery to address his injuries. Doctors inserted a metal rod into his leg to stabilize the fracture caused by the impact with the suspect’s vehicle. Hall also suffered a fracture to his other ankle during the altercation. Despite the severity of his injuries, the HCSO reported that Hall remains in “good spirits.” 

Investigation Underway

In the wake of this brazen attack, the HCSO mobilized its resources to track down the suspect. Detectives working the case have made some progress, locating the abandoned BMW approximately a mile away from the scene of the second stop. The vehicle’s owner has been identified and is currently being interviewed by law enforcement, though it remains unclear whether the owner was the person behind the wheel during the incident.

“This suspect’s actions have no regard for human life, choosing to ram a deputy without considering that his reckless actions could tragically impact the deputy’s life,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our deputies come to work committed to making a difference in their community with every call for service, but also knowing how dangerous this career can be, putting their lives on the line every day.”

The HCSO is urging the public to come forward with any information that might aid in the investigation. They are encouraging citizens to call 813-247-8200 with any relevant details.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers on a daily basis. It highlights the unpredictable nature of traffic stops and the split-second decisions officers must make to protect themselves and the community they serve.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association