TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa police have now released the 911 calls from bystanders of the deadly crash that killed a man who was jogging on Bayshore Blvd. We are also learning more about the man that was killed.
The United Methodist Church in Tampa confirms the man was an active member of the church.
“He was a faithful and active member of this church and he will be greatly missed. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we would prefer not to divulge more information than that,” said Senior Pastor Magrey DeVega.
ABC Action News also spoke with another jogger who claims to have known the man that was killed.
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“Him and his wife were enjoying life traveling, and just taking an innocent stroll on our beautiful Bayshore,” said Michelle Gilbey, a jogger.
TPD says 31-year-old Benjamin Ehas was driving under the influence down northbound Bayshore Blvd when he hit a man on the sidewalk, knocking him into the water on Thursday.
Police say Ehas’ blood alcohol content was three times the legal limit and they’re now charging him with vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter.
Pinch A Penny, the company vehicle Ehas was driving at the time of the crash, released another statement in which they say Ehas is no longer an employee.
As a local, independently owned and operated business, we are proud members of the Tampa community and are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred involving one of our former employees. Pinch A Penny of South Tampa maintains an unwavering commitment to the highest standard of safety, and have a zero tolerance policy for the reckless behavior this individual displayed. We intend to cooperate fully with local law enforcement throughout the ongoing investigation. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those involved.
ABC Action News has learned that ABC Fine Wine and Spirits on Gandy Blvd in Tampa is working with police to assist in the investigation. They are hoping to find out whether Ehas went into the liquor store leading up to the crash.
Police say Ehas remains in stable condition in the hospital.
The Take Back Bayshore Blvd group is planning a vigil for the man that was killed. It’s scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m.
Officials have not released the deceased jogger's name due to Marsy's Law.
In lieu of flowers or balloons, they are asking those that attend to bring a single shoelace, and they’ll tie those together and hang them on the balustrades.
