Who: Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Operations Bureau -Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT)
Deputy Austin Rill (Driver-Uninjured) Date of Hire: 01/22/2019 Age: 23 Vehicle: 2020 Fully marked Chevrolet Tahoe (Agency Vehicle)
Keith Angelo Thomas (Driver- injured) DOB: 11/07/1974 Vehicle: 2006 Honda Civic
What: Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a deputy involved crash in Largo.
When: The crash occurred at about 6:07 p.m. on July 11, 2020.
Where: The crash occurred at 10289 Ulmerton Road in Largo.
Why/How: Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a deputy involved crash in Largo.
According to investigators, on July 11, 2020 at approximately 6:07 p.m., Deputy Rill was on-duty in his fully marked 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling westbound on Ulmerton Road when he observed a 2006 Honda Civic commit several traffic infractions ahead of him in traffic.
Investigators say, Deputy Rill activated his emergency equipment to conduct a traffic stop and the Honda continued accelerating before abruptly stopping. Deputy Rill was unable to stop his Tahoe before striking the rear of the Honda, driven by 45 year-old Keith Thomas.
Thomas advised investigators he was experiencing some minor pain, but refused treatment and transport to a hospital. Deputy Rill was not injured.
Impairment does not appear to be a factor.
The investigation continues.
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