Temple Terrace Police Officer Arrested After Fatal Crash That Killed 6-Year-Old Girl

A former Temple Terrace police officer has been arrested and charged in connection with a devastating crash that claimed the life of a 6-year-old child earlier this month, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The case has raised serious questions about reckless driving, accountability, and conduct by law enforcement officers.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on April 15, 2026, along East Fowler Avenue in Temple Terrace.

Troopers say a 36-year-old woman was driving a Nissan Pathfinder eastbound with three children—ages 8, 6, and 1—when she attempted a U-turn at North Drive.

At the same time, a Temple Terrace police officer was driving a department-issued Ford Explorer westbound.

The vehicles collided, causing both to spin out and come to rest in a ditch.

All occupants were transported to local hospitals.

Tragically, a 6-year-old girl died from her injuries. An 8-year-old child remains hospitalized.

Officer Allegedly Traveling Over 100 MPH

The Florida Highway Patrol determined through its independent investigation that the officer, identified as 25-year-old Zachary Krug, was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour in a 50 mph zone at the time of the crash.

Officials say:

• The officer was not engaged in any active law enforcement pursuit or emergency response
• The speed was significantly above the posted limit
• The conduct violated department policies and applicable laws

Arrest, Charges, and Termination

Krug has been arrested and charged with:

• Vehicular homicide
• Three counts of reckless driving involving serious bodily injury

He surrendered to authorities and is currently being held without bond at the Hillsborough County Jail.

The Temple Terrace Police Department confirmed that he has been terminated following an internal investigation, which found his actions were not consistent with department policy or city regulations.

Legal Implications of Reckless Driving

Driving at excessive speeds—especially without justification—can have catastrophic consequences.

Under Florida law, reckless driving resulting in death may lead to:

• Felony charges such as vehicular homicide
• Significant prison time
• Permanent criminal record

When such conduct results in the death of a child, the legal and emotional impact is profound.

Government Liability and Civil Claims

In cases involving law enforcement vehicles, additional legal considerations may arise.

Potential issues include:

• Whether the officer was acting within the scope of employment
• Whether department policies were followed or violated
• Possible liability of the municipality under certain circumstances

Families affected by such tragedies may have the right to pursue civil claims alongside criminal proceedings.

The Dangers of High-Speed Driving in Urban Areas

Driving at extreme speeds on public roadways—particularly near intersections—greatly increases the risk of severe crashes.

Dangers include:

• Reduced reaction time
• Increased stopping distance
• Greater impact force during collisions
• Higher likelihood of fatal injuries

Even a single moment of excessive speed can lead to irreversible consequences.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to handle the criminal investigation, while legal proceedings against the former officer move forward.

Our Thoughts Are With the Family

This is an unimaginable tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family of the young girl who lost her life, as well as the other child who remains hospitalized.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families across Florida in wrongful death cases, including those involving catastrophic negligence. When reckless actions lead to the loss of life, accountability is critical.

We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for your family.