A devastating hit-and-run incident has claimed the life of a bicyclist in northwest Miami-Dade, prompting an urgent appeal from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) for public assistance in locating the suspect vehicle and driver.
The fatal crash occurred late Monday night, approximately 11:53 p.m., near the intersection of Northwest 12th Avenue and 103rd Street. Deputies responding to the scene discovered the victim unresponsive. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue pronounced the bicyclist deceased at the location.
According to preliminary reports from the MDSO’s Traffic Homicide Unit, the victim was struck by a gray sedan. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, traveling westbound on Northwest 103rd Street. The MDSO is actively investigating the case and has not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin.
This incident adds to a concerning trend of traffic-related fatalities involving vulnerable road users in the Miami-Dade area. Statistics from previous years highlight the significant risks faced by cyclists and pedestrians on local roads. For instance, in 2021, Miami-Dade County reported a substantial number of bicycle and pedestrian accidents, with over 85% of these incidents resulting in injury or death. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data has also indicated a higher rate of fatal bicycle crashes in Miami compared to other U.S. cities, underscoring the need for enhanced road safety measures.
Causes of such accidents in Miami are often attributed to a combination of factors, including distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, and dangerous road conditions. The MDSO stressed that the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information pertaining to the gray sedan or its driver to come forward.
The Sheriff’s Office has requested that individuals with information contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477. The community is urged to assist in bringing closure to the victim’s family and holding the responsible party accountable. This recent event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring road safety for all residents, particularly those who rely on bicycles for transportation or recreation in the current Miami affairs landscape.
