Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
-Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT)

Deputy Austin Rill (Driver-Uninjured)
Date of Hire: 01/22/2019
Age: 23
Vehicle: 2020 Fully marked Chevrolet Tahoe (Agency Vehicle)

Keith Angelo Thomas (Driver- injured)
DOB: 11/07/1974
Vehicle: 2006 Honda Civic

What:
Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a deputy involved crash in  Largo.

When:
The crash occurred at about 6:07 p.m. on July 11, 2020.

Where:
The crash occurred at 10289 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

Why/How:
Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a deputy involved crash in  Largo.

According to investigators, on July 11, 2020 at approximately 6:07 p.m., Deputy Rill was on-duty in his fully marked 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling westbound on Ulmerton Road when he observed a 2006 Honda Civic commit several traffic infractions ahead of him in traffic.

Investigators say, Deputy Rill activated his emergency equipment to conduct a traffic stop and the Honda continued accelerating before abruptly stopping. Deputy Rill was unable to stop his Tahoe before striking the rear of the Honda, driven by 45 year-old Keith Thomas.

Thomas advised investigators he was experiencing some minor pain, but refused treatment and transport to a hospital. Deputy Rill was not injured.

Impairment does not appear to be a factor.

The investigation continues.