Islamorada, Florida — A high-speed chase in the Florida Keys ended dramatically Tuesday night after a 23-year-old driver crashed his Range Rover into a boat being transported along U.S. 1, authorities said.
The incident began around 4:30 p.m. when a Monroe County sheriff’s deputy pulled over Christopher Brinkley Smithers, 23, from Great Falls, Virginia, near mile marker 101.4 in Key Largo.
The deputy reported that Smithers’ vehicle nearly sideswiped her patrol car, and the driver appeared fidgety and restless, struggling to communicate coherently. When another deputy arrived to conduct a sobriety test, Smithers sped off, prompting the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to take over the pursuit.
Speeds Exceeding 120 MPH
Smithers drove approximately 14 miles south on U.S. 1 toward Founders Park in Islamorada, reaching speeds over 122 mph in areas where the speed limit ranges from 45 to 55 mph.
Witness video posted to social media showed the black Range Rover driving down the median between northbound and southbound lanes, with FHP cruisers closely pursuing him.
Troopers attempted multiple pit maneuvers to stop the SUV, but Smithers evaded them by turning onto the Old Highway parallel to U.S. 1. Eventually, FHP forced him off the road, where he collided with a twin-engine center console boat being towed by a pickup truck.
Dangerous Maneuvers Near a Public Park
Before the final crash, Smithers entered Founders Park, a recreational area with ball fields and playgrounds, before backing out and hitting the park’s guard house, which damaged the SUV’s right front tire. Troopers then confronted Smithers, ordering him out of the vehicle at gunpoint. He initially resisted arrest but was eventually cuffed.
According to the reports, the paramedics from Monroe County Fire Rescue transported him to Mariners Hospital for evaluation before booking him into jail,
Drug Use and Charges
Smithers told authorities that he had taken 80 milligrams of Adderall, a stimulant medication commonly prescribed for ADHD. Officials noted that the typical therapeutic dose ranges from 5 to 40 milligrams per day, meaning his reported intake significantly exceeded standard levels. A breathalyzer test came back negative for alcohol, and results from a urine drug test are pending.
As of Wednesday, Smithers faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Two felony counts of fleeing and eluding police
- Felony drug possession
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Leaving the scene of a crash causing property damage
Smithers remains in custody, with bond yet to be set, and his next court appearance is scheduled for December 12.
Conclusion
Officials emphasized that the pursuit posed a serious risk to the public, particularly near Founders Park, which is used by children and families. Authorities are reminding drivers to comply with law enforcement and avoid reckless behavior on the road.
What do you think about this high-speed chase in the Florida Keys? Should law enforcement implement stricter measures to prevent dangerous pursuits, or are current tactics sufficient? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below.
