Bruce B. Downs to Reopen Soon

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies are working to clean up a two-vehicle crash that led to the closing of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard near 42nd Street this morning.

According to sheriff’s office spokeswoman Debbie Carter, the roadway should reopen in both directions sometime after 12:30 p.m. today, Aug. 30.

The crash involved a 2008 Chevy Impala driven by Francis Griesser, 24, of 9315 Knight Bridge Court in Tampa and a 2006 Ford F250 driven by David Mitchell, 55, of 6804 Monet Court. Carter said Mitchell’s truck was towing a trailer full of equipment and that there were four passengers in the bed.

Griesser’s Impala was traveling south on Bruce B. Downs and was attempting a turn into the Oak Ramble complex when it crossed into the path of Mitchell’s northbound truck. Mitchell attempted to avoid the crash, but struck the Impala’s rear quarter panel, Carter said.

Mitchell’s truck continued moving forward and struck a TECO power pole, breaking it in half. The electrical lines fell into the road, Carter said.

Griesser was charged with driving with a suspended license and for failing to yield the right of way.

Only one injury was reported, Carter said. One of Mitchell’s passengers complained of a leg injury and was taken to Florida Hospital for treatment.

TECO anticipates having the power pole and lines fixed soon, Carter said. The road is expected to reopen in both directions around 12:30 p.m.