A late-night crash at one of Miami's busiest highway interchanges sent a police motorman to the hospital Thursday, and detectives now want to know who hit him and then took off.
The officer was struck near the I-95 and I-195 interchange just after 11 p.m., according to Miami police. He was conscious when he was taken to a nearby hospital, but officials have kept a tight lid on further details while the investigation plays out.
According to CBS News Miami, the call about the injured motorman came in shortly after 11 p.m. from the area of Interstate 95 and Interstate 195. Video of the aftermath from the station was later reposted by Spot On Florida.
Video Shows Scramble On The Highway
The footage shows first responders clustered on the roadway, treating the injured motorman as traffic backs up around the scene. Crews can be seen working to redirect drivers while investigators move around the area with flashlights, surveying debris and skid marks.
Local 10 posted the clip online and reported that the officer had not been publicly identified.
Detectives On The Hunt For The Car
Miami police say they are treating the crash as a possible hit-and-run and are asking for tips about the vehicle involved, authorities told CBS News Miami. So far, the department has not released a description of the car or any suspect details as detectives work to piece together what happened.
What Florida Law Says
In Florida, taking off after a serious crash is not just a bad look, it is a felony. Under Florida Statutes, willfully leaving the scene of a crash that injures someone is a third-degree felony that can bring prison time and a revoked driver’s license. If the victim suffers serious injury or is killed, the penalties get even tougher.
Motormen Face Ongoing Highway Hazards
This is not the first time Miami motormen have been hit while working city roads. In early January, WPLG reported that two motormen were injured when an SUV struck workers on the Dolphin Expressway, underscoring the risks officers face while operating near fast-moving traffic. Local 10 reported that both officers in that case were later released from the hospital.
So far, Miami police have not released the latest motorman’s name or given an update on his condition. Investigators are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the department. This story will be updated as officials release more details.
