Tragic Hit-and-Run in Liberty City Leaves One Dead, Four Hospitalized

On the morning of Saturday, March 23, 2025, a devastating hit-and-run accident in Liberty City, Miami, claimed the life of one person and left at least four others hospitalized with injuries ranging from serious to critical. According to Miami Police and City of Miami Fire Rescue, the crash occurred just after 9:05 a.m. near NW 54th Street and 17th Avenue.

First responders arrived at the scene to find a harrowing situation: a single vehicle had rolled over, ejecting one person and trapping another inside. Additionally, multiple pedestrians had been struck by the car. Miami Fire Rescue crews quickly declared the scene a “mass casualty incident” to request more resources and dispatched the Technical Rescue Team (TRT) to help stabilize the vehicle and extricate the trapped victim using hydraulic tools.

In total, five victims were transported to nearby trauma centers, including Ryder Trauma Center and Jackson Memorial Hospital. Two were listed in extremely critical condition, while others suffered serious injuries. Tragically, one of the victims has since died.

According to Miami Police, the crash is now being treated as a hit-and-run. Traffic Homicide detectives are actively searching for the person responsible for fleeing the scene.

In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident—especially one that involves serious bodily injury or death—is a criminal offense, often charged as a felony. In addition to criminal penalties, the driver may be held civilly liable for the damages they caused.

How Florida’s Legal System Handles Hit-and-Run Deaths

When a fatal hit-and-run occurs, the Florida legal system typically handles the case through two parallel processes:

1. Criminal Proceedings: Prosecutors may charge the driver with leaving the scene of an accident causing death (a first-degree felony under Florida Statutes § 316.027). Other charges may include vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, or reckless driving.
2. Civil Proceedings: Surviving family members may file a civil wrongful death lawsuit to recover financial compensation for their losses.

These are two separate systems. A criminal conviction is not necessary to pursue a civil claim, and civil claims often proceed independently. However, evidence uncovered in the criminal investigation may help support the civil case.

Understanding Florida Wrongful Death Claims

When someone passes away due to the careless or reckless actions of another person—whether through a car accident, a hit-and-run, or any other preventable incident—it may give rise to a wrongful death claim under Florida law. These claims are governed by Florida Statutes § 768.16–768.26, known as the Florida Wrongful Death Act.

Unlike personal injury claims, wrongful death lawsuits are filed by the deceased person’s estate, usually through a court-appointed personal representative. The compensation awarded, if any, is distributed to eligible surviving family members, which may include:

• A spouse
• Children
• Parents
• Blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were financially dependent on the deceased

Wrongful death cases can be complex, involving emotional, financial, and legal considerations. Understanding your rights under the law is a crucial first step during such a difficult time.

What Families Should Know About Hit-and-Run Investigations

Hit-and-run crashes can be uniquely difficult for families, both emotionally and legally. It’s not just the loss or injury that hurts—it’s the fact that someone fled the scene without offering help or taking responsibility.

In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony offense. Law enforcement typically launches an investigation involving:

• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras
• Witness statements
• Vehicle debris or physical evidence left at the scene
• Public tips and anonymous reports

If a driver is found, they may face both criminal charges and civil liability. Families can then pursue a civil lawsuit for wrongful death or personal injury in addition to the state’s prosecution.

Common Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases

Victims and their families often encounter specific hurdles in the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash:

• Lack of immediate answers: Without a known driver, families may feel stuck in limbo, waiting on updates from law enforcement.
• Limited access to evidence: Important details—like traffic camera footage or police reports—may not be released publicly during an active investigation.
• Difficulty with insurance claims: Insurance companies may delay or deny claims until more information becomes available, especially if the policyholder doesn’t carry UM/UIM coverage.

While the uncertainty can be overwhelming, it’s important for families to keep records, collect medical documentation, and stay informed on their rights. In many cases, gathering evidence early—such as photos, contact info for witnesses, and timelines of events—can be vital later on.

We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by this tragic incident in Liberty City. Losing a loved one or suffering serious injuries in a hit-and-run crash is an unimaginable experience, and our thoughts are with everyone impacted.

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, we are here to help. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your legal options. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re ready to listen and support you during this difficult time.