Part of a Florida highway was blocked when more than 100 vehicles took part in a takeover, resulting in a driver getting arrested for going 140 mph, authorities said.
The incident happened about 1:30 a.m., Aug. 1 on Interstate 75 in Hillsborough County near mile marker 266. Motorists used the interstate to perform burnouts and other dangerous driving maneuvers, bringing traffic to a complete stop and creating a hazardous situation for other motorists, officials with the Florida Highway Patrol said.
One driver, Yulian Lugo, 25, was observed driving a green BMW at approximately 140 mph, which qualifies as an automatic arrest under the state’s super speeders law. Deputies pursued Lugo, who eventually exited the highway and pulled over in a residential neighborhood.
Lugo was arrested and charged with aggravated fleeing to elude and participating in a street takeover. Three passengers in the vehicle also were arrested on charges of participating in a street takeover after investigators determined they voluntarily took part in the event.
FHP officials said the more arrests could be made as the investigation continties.
“Street takeovers are inherently dangerous to those involved, spectators, and other motorists,” said FHP Sgt. Steve Gaskins. “The behavior is illegal for drivers, passengers, and spectators participating in such events. The Florida Highway Patrol remains dedicated to highway safety and will enforce Florida law at every opportunity.”
What is Florida’s new ‘super speeders’ law?
The law, which went into effect July 1, 2025, brings a $500 fine and up to 30 days in jail, or both, for anyone exceeding the speed limit by 50 mph or more, or driving 100 mph or more in a reckless manner commits “dangerous excessive speeding”
Second or subsequent offenses mean up to 90 days in jail, a fine of $1,000, or both. Anyone caught doing it again within five years after a prior conviction will have their driver’s license revoked for at least six months.
Also, any drivers who exceed the speed limit by 50 mph or more must now appear in court, rather than just paying a fine. The bill also allows law enforcement to impose additional fines for drivers going 30 mph or 50 mph over the posted limit at their discretion.
What is a takeover?
Takeovers, especially teen takeovers, have been occurring more and more all over the country.
The term is used to describe large groups of people, typically teens, coordinating online to meet up at designated public spaces. These are not organized events, which frequently lead to gatherings that end up needing intervention by law enforcement.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier in June launched a statewide crackdown on takeovers across the state. He said Florida will pursue conspiracy and related charges for people who participate in the events.
“Our prosecutors are stepping into the fight with expertise on organized crime to prevent our streets and businesses from being hijacked by coordinated chaos,” Uthmeier said in a prepared statement. “If you organize these destructive takeovers, we will find you, we will dismantle your network, and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Michelle Spitzer is a journalist for The USA TODAY NETWORK-FLORIDA. As the network’s Rapid Response reporter, she covers Florida’s breaking news. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Driver hits 140 mph as 100 cars take part in Florida highway takeover
Reporting by Michelle Spitzer, USA TODAY NETWORK / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Michelle Spitzer, USA TODAY NETWORK | USA TODAY Network
