On January 11th, 2012, at approximately 3:32pm, Pinellas Park Police and Fire/Rescue personnel responded to a serious motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Gandy Blvd and 35th Street.
A preliminary investigation has determined that a 1996 Lincoln Towncar operated by Helen Sauerbier, age 84, of Pinellas Park, was westbound on Gandy Blvd when she attempted to make a left turn onto 35th Street. Sauerbier’s Towncar drove into the path of an eastbound 2007 Nissan Murano operated by William McClendon, age 44 of St. Petersburg. Sauerbier sustained fatal injuries in the crash and died at the scene. McClendon was transported to Bayfront Medical Center with what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries.
McClendon was operating his vehicle with a suspended driver’s license at the time of crash. In addition, investigators have reason to believe that alcohol may have been a factor in the collision. Charges against McClendon are pending. Next of kin notification to Sauerbier’s family has been made.
Investigator: Det. Marc Luginbill
Released by:
Sgt. Brian Unmisig, PIO
727-541-0785 (Office)
813-562-9950 (Mobile)
Pinellas Park Police Department