News Summary

A Texas man was arrested for DUI following a fatal accident involving an electric bicycle in St. Petersburg. The collision resulted in the death of a 43-year-old cyclist. Authorities are investigating the incident as they emphasize road safety, particularly for cyclists. The suspect refused to take a breath test at the scene, raising further concerns about impaired driving and community vigilance on the roads.

St. Petersburg

A 36-year-old Texas man has been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) following a fatal collision involving an electric bicycle early Saturday morning. The incident occurred on September 6, 2025, at approximately 3:05 a.m. on Gandy Boulevard, near the intersection with 4th Street North.

The suspect, identified as Robert Chase Self, was driving a Chevy Silverado eastbound when he struck a 43-year-old local man who was also traveling east on an electric cycle. Emergency services were called to the scene, and the cyclist was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Authorities confirmed that Robert Self was arrested at the scene on suspicion of DUI. He allegedly refused to take a breath test following the crash. The identity of the deceased cyclist is still pending release as authorities work to notify next of kin.

Investigation Underway

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is actively investigating the case. Details about the circumstances leading to the collision have not been disclosed, but initial reports indicate that both the vehicle and the bicycle were traveling in the same direction prior to the crash.

Community Reaction and Safety Concerns

The incident has raised concerns within the St. Petersburg community regarding road safety, particularly for cyclists. As electric bicycles become more popular, safety measures and regulations are being scrutinized. Local officials are emphasizing the importance of responsible driving and the need for awareness on the roads, especially in urban areas where pedestrian and cyclist traffic is high.

Background on DUI Regulations

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Florida, carrying significant legal consequences. Law enforcement agencies actively monitor for impaired drivers through checkpoints and patrols, particularly during late-night hours and weekends. Refusal to take a breathalyzer test can result in further legal penalties, including license suspension.

In light of this tragic event, public safety advocates are encouraging discussions around safer driving practices, particularly regarding the interaction between motor vehicles and vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians.

As the investigation progresses, the FHP has urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Community members are reminded of the importance of safety on the roads and the shared responsibility between all users of public streets.

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Additional Resources

• WTSP News
• Fox 13 News
• WFLA News
• Iontb
• WFLA News
• Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
• Google Search: St. Petersburg cycling safety
• Google Scholar: Florida DUI laws
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Driving Under the Influence
• Google News: St. Petersburg DUI incidents

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.