Two Fatalities in Tampa Moped Crash

Updated on October 16, 2023

On Saturday October 5th 2013, a car accident in Tampa left two moped riders dead and a third seriously injured following a hit and run incident, according to reports from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The crash occurred late Saturday night, just before midnight.

FHP troopers stated Cameron Maddox, 19, of Tampa, was carrying two passengers on the back of a moped when a car struck them from behind. Maddox was headed northbound on Dale Mabry, just south of Busch Boulevard. The moped was hit from behind by a Hyundai Accent driven by Amanda Diaz, age 23.

The two passengers, Michael Garcia, 16, of Tampa and another unidentified ‘young female,’ were killed in the crash. As all three riders were thrown from the moped, another passing vehicle ran over the female passenger, killing her instantly. Maddox and Garcia were both transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Maddox remains in serious condition, but Garcia died from his injuries.

Both cars involved in the crash left the scene. However, troopers were able to track down the driver of the Hyundai Accent, Diaz, at her residence, using witness statements. The second driver has not been identified.

FHP did not arrest Diaz, but they say that a citation and charges are pending based on the outcome of a full investigation. Carrying two passengers on a moped is unlawful, but leaving the scene of any motor vehicle accident is as well. All those involved have been subjected to a toxicology screening. No word has been provided on any involvement of alcohol. It is not known how these factors may contribute to any pending court charges or civil claims.

Update: On or about November 4, 2015 Amanda Diaz pled guilty to charges related to the crash including Leaving the scene of a crash with death. The sentence included incarceration, community control followed by probation, and restitution to families of the victims. Ms. Diaz also had her driver’s license suspended permanently.

Reference:

Tampa Bay Times