CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS INCIDENT
By Ignatius Carroll Jr.
Just after 0900 hours on July 16, 2016, Miami (FL) Fire Rescue (MFR) responded to reports of a vehicle floating in the Miami River, just across from the Dade County Court House.
According to witnesses, a small SUV drove off the road, slightly injuring a homeless man before plunging into the water. Several bystanders attempted to enter the murky waters as the driver desperately tried to break the window. The vehicle floated swiftly to the middle of the river before becoming completely submerged.
MFR Dive Team and Fireboat crews entered the water with the assistance of other fire and law enforcement agencies. After an grueling search, divers located the vehicle 25-30 feet below with an adult male inside. The driver was removed and paramedics initiated lifesaving efforts on shore.
The driver was transported to an area hospital but did not survive. The homeless man was treated on scene for minor injuries. Miami (FL) Police Department is still investigating the cause of the accident.
Ignatius Carroll Jr. is a captain and public relations officer for Miami (FL) Fire Rescue / icarroll@miamigov.com)
MORE FIREFIGHTING PHOTOS >>
