USPS driver killed in crash

Date: September 20, 2021 

Case Number: 2021-008362

At approximately 12:13 PM, Bradenton PD was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash in the 3300 block of 7th Ave W involving a United States Postal Service delivery vehicle and a Mercedes SUV. Investigators determined the Mercedes SUV, operated by 79-year-old Phillip B. Simpson of Bradenton, failed to stop for the stop sign and hit the side of the USPS truck, causing it to turn onto its side. The driver of the USPS truck, 41-year-old Michael Silvestri of Bradenton, died at the scene.

Toxicology tests are pending; however, investigators do not believe drugs or alcohol to be a factor in the crash.

Simpson was issued a citation for failing to stop for a stop sign and given a mandatory appearance in court.

If anyone has any information on this case, please contact Officer Jacob Bjurholm at (941) 932- 9300. You may also email your information to BPDTIPS@BRADENTONPD.COM.