Wrong-Way DUI Driver Slams Into Off-Duty Deputy On FL Bridge: FHP

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A wrong-way driver accused of driving under the influence across the Sunshine Skyway Bridge crashed into a pick-up truck Wednesday night, seriously injuring both drivers, according to a Florida Highway Patrol news release.

Yosman Alexander Ixpata Xitumul of Brandon is accused of driving more than three times the legal limit, FHP said.

• aggravated flee to elude with serious injury
• reckless driving with injury/damage
• leaving the scene with injury
• DUI with property damage
• driving with a suspended license

Troopers received reports of a wrong-way driver traveling north in the southbound lanes of Interstate 275 across the bridge just before 10 p.m.

A trooper assigned to monitor the span traveled south to intercept the wrong-way driver, who was also in a pick-up truck, and unsuccessfully attempted a PIT maneuver to stop him.

The trooper then tried to overtake the truck, which was speeding. Shortly after this, the Xitumul slammed nearly head-on with another truck near milepost 17, FHP said.

After the crash, Xitumul ran from his truck on foot and was eventually taken into custody by St. Petersburg police officers.

Xitumul and the driver of the truck he crashed into, a 33-year-old off-duty Hillsborough County sheriff’s deputy, were seriously injured and brought to an area hospital.

It’s not known where the suspect began traveling in the wrong direction, FHP said.