It is unclear why one driver crossed over into oncoming traffic.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Both drivers died this morning (Oct. 23) in a head-on crash on Morris Bridge Road, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.

Howard William Hawkins Jr., 50, of Zephyrhills, and Marcellus Andre Shackelford, 38, of Tampa, both died at the scene.

The crash happened about 6:46 a.m on Morris Bridge Road. Mr. Hawkins Jr. was driving a 2016 Kia Forte south. Mr. Shackelford was driving north on Morris Bridge Road in a
2014 Ford Fusion. Both were traveling about 45 mph, deputies said.

Mr. Hawkins crossed over the center line and struck Mr. Shackelford head-on. It is unclear why he crossed the center line. Deputies said there was no indication of impairment.

The crash closed Morris Bridge Road for several hours.

For information about the Hillsborough sheriff, go to hcso.tampa.fl.us.

Hillsborough Sheriff | Head-On Crash | Morris Bridge Crash | Howard William Hawkins Jr. | Marcellus Andre Shackelford

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