TEMPLE TERRACE, FL – April 30, 2026 — A Temple Terrace police officer has been arrested and terminated following a fatal crash that occurred on April 15 on East Fowler Avenue, according to the Florida Highway Patrol and the Temple Terrace Police Department.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:58 p.m. near North Drive. Investigators say a Temple Terrace Police Ford Explorer, driven by 25-year-old Officer Zachary Krug, was traveling westbound in the center lane at speeds exceeding 100 mph. A Nissan Pathfinder, driven by a 36-year-old Tampa woman, was traveling eastbound in the turn lane and initiated a left turn at the intersection, entering the path of the police vehicle. The vehicles collided and came to rest in a ditch on the north side of the roadway.
All occupants were initially transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. A 6-year-old female passenger later died from injuries sustained in the crash. A 1-year-old and an 8-year-old female passenger were also in the vehicle; the 8-year-old remains hospitalized.
Following an investigation, Florida Highway Patrol troopers determined Krug was traveling at an excessive speed and was the primary contributor to the crash. On April 30, he surrendered at the Hillsborough County Jail and was charged with vehicular homicide and three counts of reckless driving involving serious bodily injury.
The Temple Terrace Police Department confirmed it was notified of Krug’s arrest and stated it supports the Florida Highway Patrol’s independent investigation. The department also conducted an internal administrative investigation, which found Krug violated department policy, city rules and regulations, and applicable law.
Based on those findings, Krug’s employment with the department has been terminated. He was hired on January 2, 2024.
The department stated it will continue to cooperate with the Florida Highway Patrol and provide updates as they become available.
SOURCE: FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL & TEMPLE TERRACE POLICE DEPARTMENT
