Florida woman caught driving 105 MPH — But watch what happens next

TAMPA, Fla. (DUANEWS) — November 1, 2026 — A 31-year-old Florida woman is facing multiple charges after authorities say she drove a Mercedes SUV at 105 mph, ran a red light and crashed near Interstate 4 in Tampa early Sunday morning.

According to a Florida Highway Patrol arrest affidavit, the driver, identified as Charisma McGowan, was spotted around 2 a.m. speeding eastbound on an Interstate 4 exit ramp near East Columbus Drive.

A trooper stopped at a red light reported seeing the SUV traveling at an extremely high speed. Radar recorded the vehicle at 105 mph, nearly twice the posted 55 mph speed limit on the nearby interstate.

From High-Speed Driving to a Violent Crash

Investigators say McGowan ran a red light and apparently attempted to make a right turn but failed to negotiate it.

The SUV struck a concrete median, crossed westbound traffic lanes, hit a traffic island and crashed into a streetlight pole before coming to a stop against a curb.

A passenger was also inside the vehicle.

According to the arrest report, McGowan repeatedly attempted to reverse the damaged SUV even after a trooper approached and ordered her to stop.

Authorities also allege she resisted an officer’s attempts to handcuff her.

Troopers Suspected Impaired Driving

A second trooper conducted a DUI investigation after officers reported observing signs of possible impairment, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and difficulty performing field sobriety exercises.

According to the affidavit, McGowan told investigators she had consumed a shot of liquor and used medical marijuana the previous evening.

Breath tests reportedly registered a blood alcohol concentration of 0.145, exceeding Florida’s legal driving limit of 0.08.

McGowan was arrested and booked into the Hillsborough County Jail.

She faces charges including DUI with property damage, reckless driving and resisting an officer without violence.

Was Anyone Injured?

Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether the passenger was injured during the crash.

The incident highlights the dangers of excessive speed and impaired driving, particularly when vehicles approach intersections and exit ramps.

The allegations against McGowan are based on law enforcement reports. She is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.