News Summary
Angel Shihate, an 89-year-old woman, has died due to a head-on collision in St. Petersburg. The driver, Brett McClelland, was under the influence of alcohol and has been charged with DUI manslaughter. The community is mourning Shihate’s passing and calling for awareness on impaired driving.
St. Petersburg – An 89-year-old woman, Angel Shihate, has died following a head-on collision that occurred on Wednesday evening. The tragic incident took place around 6:30 p.m. on 38th Avenue North when a vehicle driven by 41-year-old Brett McClelland swerved into oncoming traffic, resulting in a collision with a black Toyota sedan. Shihate was a passenger in the Toyota, and despite being rushed to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries.
The driver of the Toyota also sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. McClelland, who was driving a Subaru Outback, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at the scene of the accident. Following his treatment, police discovered that he was under the influence of alcohol.
As a result of his impaired state while operating a vehicle, McClelland has been arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter and DUI causing serious bodily injury. The St. Petersburg Police Department is actively continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The unfortunate loss of Angel Shihate has left a profound impact on the St. Petersburg community. Residents are mourning her passing and reflecting on the dangers associated with driving under the influence, highlighting the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts.
Incident Details
The fatal incident transpired on a busy evening, likely populated with evening commuters and families. McClelland’s vehicle veered across the dividing line and into oncoming traffic, leading to the collision with the Toyota sedan. Emergency responders arrived promptly, providing immediate care to those injured in the crash.
Legal Consequences
Charges against McClelland carry significant legal implications, particularly the DUI manslaughter charge, which reflects the severe consequences of his actions. If convicted, he could face substantial prison time, underscoring the serious nature of driving under the influence. Authorities are likely to build a case based on the evidence gathered at the scene, medical reports, and witness statements.
Community Reaction
The death of Angel Shihate has resonated deeply within the St. Petersburg community, where many residents are lamenting the loss of a beloved figure. Community members have expressed their condolences and support for Shihate’s family during this difficult time. There is a renewed call for education on the dangers of impaired driving, as residents seek ways to honor her memory and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Background Context
This incident is part of a broader concern regarding the effects of impaired driving on road safety. Statistics from highway safety organizations indicate that alcohol-related accidents are a significant cause of fatalities on roads across the nation. In Florida, the issue is particularly pressing, leading to ongoing campaigns designed to reduce alcohol consumption and promote safe driving practices.
As the St. Petersburg Police Department continues its investigation, the community is left reflecting on the impact of the tragedy, advocating for awareness and collective responsibility on the roads to ensure safer environments for all drivers and passengers.
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Additional Resources
- Hoodline: St. Petersburg Man Charged with DUI Manslaughter
- WTSP: St. Pete Sign Crash, DUI Charge
- WFLA: St. Pete Police Announce Upgraded Charges
- Fox 13 News: Driver Faces New Charges in DUI Crash
- Google Search: Impaired Driving
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
