Driver accused of killing pedestrian in Bayshore Blvd crash had BAC of .234, police say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A pedestrian has died after being hit and killed by a pool service truck on Bayshore Boulevard.

The crash occurred around 11:13 a.m. at the intersection of Bayshore Boulevard and West Julia Street.

Police say the white truck was driving northbound on Bayshore when it left the roadway, hitting the pedestrian on the sidewalk. The pedestrian went into Hillsborough Bay.

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According to Tampa police, 31-year-old Benjamin Ehas’ blood drawn at the hospital showed Ehas had a BAC of .234.

Ehas has been charged with vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter

Police also mentioned two Good Samaritans jumped into the water to help rescue the pedestrian before fire rescue arrived.

“When something like this happens, you know, the fortunate thing is you have people that are willing to spring into action that was the case here,” said Jason Penny with Tampa Fire Rescue.

Tampa Fire Rescue confirmed a HAZMAT team was called due to the presence of chlorine and pool chemicals.

Police did not release the pedestrian’s name due to Marsy’s Law, but WFLA sources identified him as Tampa wealth manager George Gage.

All lanes of Bayshore Blvd have since reopened.

Ehas, who was employed by Pinch A Penny, a pool supply company, was driving a company truck when the crash occurred.

Pinch A Penny released the following statement to WFLA:

“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.”

Ehas’ family also provided News Channel 8 with a statement, saying “our heart goes out the family of the person who lost their life.”

Detectives ask anyone who witnessed the crash, or has video leading up to the crash is asked to call Tampa police at 813-231-6130.

Please check back for the latest updates on this story.

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