Leonard De La Garza, a 57-year-old man from Saint Petersburg, FL, tragically died on August 14, 2016. According to reports, Leonard De La Garza, Jr., who was of Hispanic descent, committed suicide while driving northbound on Interstate 275. The incident occurred just after midnight when De La Garza pulled out a handgun and shot himself, causing his vehicle to swerve into the path of two other northbound cars. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the St.
Petersburg Police Department responded to the scene and determined that De La Garza's actions led to a three-vehicle accident. Fortunately, no one else involved in the accident sustained serious injuries.
There were no arrests, suspects, or litigations related to Leonard De La Garza's death, as it was determined to be a suicide. The investigation by the St. Petersburg Police Department confirmed that De La Garza had taken his own life, and there were no indications of foul play or involvement of other individuals. The tragic event led to the closure of all northbound lanes on I-275 near 62nd Avenue North for about eight hours as authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the scene.
Leonard De La Garza's death was a significant loss to his family and community. He was survived by his loving family, who arranged for his burial in Texas. The funeral services were handled by Heritage Funeral Home in Victoria, TX, with assistance from Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home in New Port Richey, FL. The community expressed their condolences and support for the family during this difficult time.
