1 dead, 3 hurt in Rickenbacker Causeway crash, Miami police say

Police: Driver loses control of convertible, crashes into palm tree

MIAMI – The driver of a convertible was killed and three passengers were hurt after a crash Monday on the Rickenbacker Causeway, police said.

Miami police said a red 2012 Chevrolet convertible was traveling westbound on the causeway at 3:30 p.m. Monday when it lost control and crashed against a palm tree.

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The impact of the crash was so severe that it broke the tree in half, according to police.

After the crash, police said several good Samaritans ran up to the convertible and began to help the two male and two female riders inside. They were able to help two of the passengers get out of the car but within minutes, the mangled convertible was engulfed in flames, police said.

Risking their own lives in the process, the good Samaritans successfully got everyone to safety and continued rendering aid to the victims until police and fire personnel arrived on the scene, according to Miami police.

All four victims were taken to Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition. Police said the driver, who was possibly ejected from the convertible upon impact, later died at the hospital.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash, assisted or filmed during or shortly after the crash, to come forward, since police said this information will be vital in investigating the fatal crash.

Those with information may call the Miami Police Department's Accident Investigation Unit at 305-603-6525. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (4877).