A leisurely Sunday on Miami Beach took a dangerous turn when a city employee, operating a vehicle on the sands, drove over a man who was sunbathing behind the Fourth Street lifeguard tower. The individual, a 59-year-old man, was subsequently taken to Ryder Trauma Center to treat his serious injuries, yet, was released the same day, suggested Melissa Berthier affirmed with a spokesperson for the city, as reported by the Miami New Times.
According to WSVN, the incident occurred early in the afternoon, likely while a beachgoer was enjoying the Florida sun. The Miami Beach Police Department is investigating, and Ocean Rescue worker Kevin Stockhausen has been cited for careless driving causing serious injury. He is currently on administrative duty.
The investigation also involves the MBPD's internal affairs. While shocking, this incident is not unprecedented, as similar accidents have occurred along Florida's coastline, according to the personal injury firm Phillips-Hunt & Walker. They noted an alarming trend, with over 20 sunbathers reportedly run over in recent years. Whether it be the 23-year-old woman struck by a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office SUV in 2022 as she lay on the sand, or the two 18-year-olds enveloped in the shadow of a patrol vehicle this past Memorial Day at Daytona Beach.
