Deputies Investigate Vehicle Crash Injuring Two Safety Harbor Firefighters (24-154)

SAFETY HARBOR – On Friday, December 6, 2024, deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) responded to 3095 McMullen Booth Road, Safety Harbor Fire Station 53, for a vehicle crash.

 According to investigators, at approximately 8:43 a.m. Deputy Steven Erickson observed a disabled Cadillac XT5 on McMullen Booth Road, just south of State Road 580. The vehicle, which was blocking the curb lane of McMullen Booth Road, was occupied by 63-year-old Malinda White. Deputy Erickson stopped to assist White, who stated her transmission was disabled, and she could not get the vehicle into neutral. Investigators say Deputy Erickson assisted White with getting the vehicle into neutral and advised her that he would utilize his push bumper to get the vehicle off the roadway. White was instructed to turn into the Chi Chi Rodriguez Driving Range, north of State Road 580.

 Investigators advise Deputy Erickson began pushing the Cadillac with his push bumper northbound on McMullen Booth Road and disengaged as they approached the entrance to Chi Chi Rodriguez Driving Range. White did not turn into the driving range, and passed the entrance, continuing northbound. Investigators say White abruptly turned right into the parking lot of Safety Harbor Fire Station 53, striking Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Craig and Captain Joseph Hans, before hitting the wall of the fire station.

 Captain Hans was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition. Firefighter Craig sustained a minor injury and remained on scene. White was transported to the hospital in stable condition.

 The investigation continues.

 Additional information:

Malinda White
DOB:01/16/61
Address: 5459 Larchmont Court North
Vehicle: 2017 Cadillac XT5

 Deputy Steven Erickson
Age:34
Date of Hire: 02/24/14

Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Craig
Age:36
Date of Hire: 11/18/18

 Captain Joseph Hans
Age:50
Date of Hire: 03/09/02