HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — A Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy was killed early Thursday in a crash in Thonotosassa.

According to Sheriff Chad Chronister, the crash happened on US Highway 301, south of McIntosh Road. 

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Deputy Darell Brown, 40, was killed in the crash when his Ford F150 collided with a flatbed tractor-trailer. Brown, who was driving home after work, died at the scene.

The commercial vehicle driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Brown joined HCSO in January 2015 and faithfully served his community as a detention deputy in both detention facilities.

Most recently, he served in the Booking Unit at the Orient Road Jail.

"Our hearts break for the family, friends, and loved ones of Deputy Brown as they navigate this incomprehensible loss," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This tragedy comes at an incredibly difficult time, as our Sheriff's Office still grieves the loss of Deputy (Tim) White. I humbly ask the community to pray for all those impacted by these painful losses. Deputy Brown was more than just a colleague; he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of inspiration to many. His genuine warmth, commitment, and compassionate spirit left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him."

Deputy Brown was off-duty driving his personal vehicle at the time of the crash. The Florida Highway Patrol will conduct the crash investigation.