Tampa Woman Arrested for DUI After Rollover Crash on I-275 Leaves Highway Partially Blocked
TAMPA, FLORIDA — A 29-year-old Tampa woman was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) after a late-night rollover crash that disrupted traffic along Interstate 275 on Thursday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Troopers identified the driver as Emily Frances Diaz, who was behind the wheel of a Honda CR-V traveling southbound in the inside lane of I-275 toward Interstate 4 when the collision occurred.
Collision Causes Vehicle to Flip on Busy Tampa Interstate
The crash happened around 10:09 p.m., when Diaz reportedly changed lanes and struck the front of a Subaru Outback, causing both vehicles to lose control. The impact caused Diaz’s Honda to flip over, while the Subaru veered off the road and struck a concrete barrier wall, FHP said.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes, blocking multiple lanes as firefighters worked to stabilize the overturned SUV. Traffic was backed up for more than an hour as troopers investigated the scene and cleared debris from the highway.
Driver Arrested for DUI After Breath Test
Troopers reported that Diaz sustained minor injuries in the crash and was evaluated at the scene before being taken into custody. After administering a breathalyzer test, investigators determined her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.205 — more than twice Florida’s legal limit of 0.08.
Following the test results, Diaz was arrested and booked on DUI charges. She was later transported to the Hillsborough County Jail, where she awaits a bond hearing.
Other Driver Uninjured
The driver of the Subaru, identified as a 25-year-old Tampa woman, was not injured in the crash. Authorities said her quick response likely prevented a more serious collision. Both vehicles sustained significant damage and were towed from the scene.
FHP Warns of Holiday DUI Enforcement
The Florida Highway Patrol reminded drivers that DUI enforcement has been stepped up statewide as part of ongoing holiday travel safety operations. Thanksgiving weekend traditionally sees an increase in alcohol-related crashes, prompting troopers to urge motorists to designate sober drivers or use ride-share services.
“Impaired driving continues to be one of the most preventable causes of serious crashes,” an FHP spokesperson said Friday. “If you drink, don’t drive — even one wrong decision can change lives in an instant.”
Charges and Investigation
Diaz faces charges of Driving Under the Influence with Property Damage and Reckless Driving, according to the arrest report. Additional penalties may be added pending the outcome of the FHP investigation and blood test results.
Authorities confirmed that no other passengers were in Diaz’s vehicle at the time of the crash.
The southbound lanes of I-275 were reopened to traffic around 11:30 p.m., after emergency crews completed cleanup and vehicle recovery operations.
Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for updates on Florida roadway safety and ongoing DUI enforcement efforts across the region.
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