[06-08-25] Driver Arrested for DUI, Friends of Victim Also Arrested in Central Florida

A DUI-related traffic crash in Central Florida recently left a pedestrian with severe injuries and resulted in three arrests, including the impaired driver and two friends of the victim who interfered with officers at the scene.

Tampa Police responded to the intersection of S Howard Ave and W Azeele St following reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian, causing critical injuries. The investigation revealed that 25-year-old Richard Meadows III was driving a white 2024 Toyota Camry northbound on S Howard Avenue when his car struck a 27-year-old black male pedestrian who was standing at the rear of a parked silver Chevy Malibu. The impact severed the man’s left leg below the knee and caused significant damage to the parked car.

“This horrific crash underscores the devastating and entirely preventable consequences of driving under the influence. Our thoughts are with the victim and his family as he begins the arduous journey of healing from these life-altering injuries,” said Tampa Police Chief Chief Lee Bercaw. “The safety of our community, including our officers, will always be our primary focus. While we understand emotions may be heightened surrounding such a traumatic event, interfering with law enforcement who are working to investigate and hold suspects accountable is unacceptable, dangerous, and will not be tolerated. We are committed to holding those who make reckless choices accountable and will continue our efforts to keep our shared roadways in Tampa safe.”

Witnesses at the scene identified Meadows as the driver. Officers arrived at the crash, observed clear signs of impairment, and immediately began a DUI investigation. Meadows was arrested and charged with DUI (Serious Bodily Injury). The injured man was transported to a nearby hospital and is currently listed in critical but stable condition.

As the crash investigation was proceeding, several friends of the victim became agitated, creating a challenging environment for officers. Despite repeated requests to maintain a safe distance, two individuals, 29-year-old Julian Jackson and 28-year-old Rashon Goode, escalated the situation.

Jackson approached officers attempting to interview Meadows, then began throwing punches, striking both Meadows and an officer. Jackson continued to resist verbal commands before being taken into custody.

As officers were arresting Jackson, Goode then attempted to pull an officer away from the arrest, grabbing the officer’s police vest before he too was taken into custody after a brief struggle.

Jackson was charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting Arrest with Violence, and an additional count of Battery. Goode was charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Resisting Arrest with Violence.

According to local law enforcement, Meadows, Jackson, and Goode were all transported to Orient Road Jail.

Source : West Orlando News