ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — Following a collision on Wednesday, a local animal rescue organization is campaigning to fund a replacement transport van.

The incident occurred on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge when a Friends of Strays Inc. vehicle, transporting 17 cats and dogs, encountered a mechanical failure and collided with a concrete barrier.

According to a shelter representative, two staff members experienced minor injuries. A veterinarian assessed the animals, finding all healthy except for one puppy, who sustained a broken leg and is currently undergoing treatment.

Currently, the organization faces a significant hurdle, lacking the essential transportation needed for its dedicated mission to rescue animals.

“We are immensely relieved that both our staff and the animals were unharmed in the crash. Our gratitude goes to the first responders who swiftly ensured everyone’s safety,” stated Dara Worthington, CEO of Friends of Strays. “Our priority is now the recovery of the injured puppy and securing a new van. This vehicle is crucial for our life-saving efforts, and we must replace it promptly to continue our work.”

Friends of Strays works with 26 different organizations statewide to take in animals that are at risk for euthanasia. Out of these organizations, 11 require transportation to move the animals from shelter to shelter.

In 2025 alone, they reported that nearly 900 cats and dogs out of the 1,700 pets they have helped were transported in the van.

“We have a long way to go to be able to purchase a new vehicle, but our community has already begun rallying behind us. We’re so grateful to everyone who has already donated what they can to help get us a new van so we can continue saving lives across the state,” said Dara Worthington, Friends of Strays CEO.

Friends of Strays Animal Shelter is the oldest no-kill animal shelter located in St. Petersburg.

If you would like to learn more about how you can help out, you can do so here.