Detectives in Miami-Dade are searching for a man accused of sexually assaulting a woman after she accepted a ride near Crandon Park in Key Biscayne in the early hours of last Saturday. Investigators say the assault happened not long after the pickup near the park, and they have released a description of both the suspect and his vehicle while urging anyone with information to come forward.
What investigators say
The victim accepted a ride on July 18 from a man driving an older gray minivan with the word “uber” written on the windshield, according to Islander News, which cited the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau.
Deputies described the suspect as a white man between 30 and 40 years old with a mustache and facial stubble. He was reportedly wearing a gray shirt, khaki pants and a white baseball cap at the time. Investigators believe the attack happened sometime between about 2:15 a.m. and 5:15 a.m. and say they are treating the case as an active sexual-assault investigation.
How to help investigators
The case is being handled by detectives with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau, who are asking anyone with information to call 305-715-3300, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.
People who prefer to stay anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 or submit a tip online, per Crime Stoppers of Miami-Dade and The Florida Keys. Detectives have also asked anyone who might have dash-cam or surveillance footage from the Crandon Park area during the early-morning hours that day to preserve it and reach out to investigators.
Victim support and safety tips
Anyone affected by sexual violence can access confidential, round-the-clock help from the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital by calling 305-585-7273, according to Jackson Health.
If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, officials recommend confirming rides through an app, sharing trip details with someone you trust and preserving any digital evidence that could assist investigators.
No arrests had been announced as of the July 24 report by Islander News, and detectives say the investigation remains active. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Special Victims Bureau or Crime Stoppers so deputies can follow up on potential leads.
