MIAMI – The Miami-Dade County Commission voted to name a street near Marlins Park after pitcher Jose Fernandez after his death, but some are questioning whether that should happen after new revelations have come to light.
An autopsy showed that the late Marlins ace had cocaine and alcohol in his system when he died in a boat crash last year, and a final report by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission stated that Fernandez was operating the boat when it crashed.
Recommended Videos
The commission voted on the street naming in November.
Commissioners decided to rename a portion of 17th Avenue as Jose Fernandez Avenue, a move initiated by Commissioner Bruno Barreiro.
Local 10 News reporter Shyann Malone asked Barreiro whether the new development changes his stance.
"I have not read the report, but I did the street naming based on his life accomplishments while he was alive, the incredible success he did as a ball player, as a family member, with his wife, with his mother and so forth, and it’s very unfortunate," Barreiro said.
At the time of the vote, one county commissioner wanted more time before the street naming was official.
"I probably would have been more comfortable providing my advice to have it deferred or withdrawn," Commissioner Jean Monestime said.
"Knowing that he would have been charged if he was alive today, does that change anything?" Malone asked Barreiro.
"Obviously, if he were still alive, I wouldn't have named a street after him," the commissioner said.
Along with the county, the Marlins organization has demonstrated continued support for Fernandez.
Players and coaches will continue wearing jerseys with the number 16 patch on them in honor of Fernandez.
Marlins team president David Samson showed his continued support in a statement Thursday.
"No matter what the report has concluded, nothing will ever diminish Jose's everlasting positive connection with Miami and the Miami Marlins. Nor can it lessen the love and passion he felt for his family, friends, teammates and all his fans in South Florida and around the world," he said.