Tampa, Florida Native and Former Antelope Valley College Football Standout, Alex Byers, 34, Killed in Tragic Car Crash

November 10, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 10, 2026

The Tampa, Florida, community mourns former athlete and football coach Alex Byers, one of four victims who lost their lives in a tragic car crash.

On November 8, 2026, Tampa Police reported a on the 1500 block of East 7th Avenue in Ybor. Around 12:40 a.m., police air units spotted a speeding vehicle that had been previously seen street racing on Hillsborough Avenue.

Florida Highway Patrol briefly pursued but disengaged. Minutes later, the driver lost control and crashed into a business, striking more than a dozen people outside.

Four adults, including 34-year-old Tampa native and football star Alex Byers, lost their lives — three at the scene and one at a hospital.

According to reports, one victim remains in critical condition, while eight others are hospitalized with stable injuries. Two additional victims suffered minor injuries and declined treatment. In total, 15 adults were hit.

The driver, identified as 22-year-old Silas Sampson, was detained at the scene. The Florida Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation.

Furthermore, the untimely death of Alex Byers has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.

Many of his loved ones are paying tribute to the late former high school and collegiate football star, Alex Byers, and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.

Alex Byers Began his Athletic Career at Spoto High School

Late Alex “Speedy” Byers, a talentedfrom Tampa, Florida, made a name for himself at Spoto High School before rising to prominence at Antelope Valley College in Lancaster, California, and later at Utah State University.

At Spoto, he played both wide receiver and defensive back, recording 11 catches for 434 yards and three touchdowns as a senior while also returning an interception for a touchdown in a single game against Sickles High School, earning MVP honors in the Florida All-Star Game.

Similarly, at Antelope Valley College, Byers set school records in receiving touchdowns (12) and receiving yards (1,072) during his sophomore season, earning CCCAA Region IV First-Team All-American and SCFA American Pacific League first-team honors.

Over his two-year junior college career, he had 79 receptions for 1,470 yards with 18 touchdowns and returned 18 kickoffs for 780 yards and three touchdowns.

Transitioning to Utah State University, he played two seasons, finishing his NCAA career with six receptions for 79 yards and one rushing attempt for 10 yards.

Alex graduated from Utah State University in 2017 with a degree in General Studies, with an emphasis on social sciences.

Remembered for his speed, athleticism, and dedication, the late Alex Byers left a lasting impact on teammates, coaches, and all who knew him.

In addition to being an amazing athlete, Alex Byers was a great son to parents Wayne and Jacqueline Byers, a devoted husband to his longtime wife, a loving father to Anylah, and a proud brother to his two siblings.

Alex Byers also leaves behind his uncles, aunts, cousins, and the entire family. His family will soon provide details about Alex’s funeral and memorial services.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• In addition to football, Alex Byers also played baseball in high school.
• His brother, Wayne Jr., played college football at Bethune-Cookman.

• Check other Articles on

Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.

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