Driver of BMW arrested after crashing head-on into Lyft driver

Police say driver had controlled substance in his possession

MIAMI ā€“ The driver of a BMW who collided head-on Sunday with a Lyft driver was arrested after authorities found a controlled substance in his possession, Miami police said.

The crash was reported about 2 p.m. Sunday at Southwest 17th Street and Southwest 25th Avenue.

Miami police said the driver of a Volkswagen Jetta, who sources identified as Robert Torra, had four people in his car when his vehicle was struck head-on by the BMW.

Torra was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic accident," Lyft spokeswoman Alexandra LaManna said. "We have been in contact with Robert's family during this unimaginably difficult time, and are available to support law enforcement in their investigation."

Miami Department of Fire-Rescue Capt. Ignatius Carroll said two women and four men, who range in age from 25 to 35, were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center following the accident.

Their injuries range from head injuries to broken bones.

Authorities said the BMW driver was among the people taken to the hospital, and he was arrested after receiving treatment.

Police said the driver, whose identity has not been released, is not facing charges in the crash, but is facing charges for being in possession of a controlled substance.

Authorities said detectives are still investigating the crash, and it's unclear whether the BMW driver was under the influence of a controlled substance at the time of the crash.


About the Authors:

Sanela Sabovic joined Local 10 News in September 2012 as an assignment editor and associate producer.Ā In August 2015, she became a full-time reporter and fill-in traffic reporter. Sanela holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications with a concentration in radio, television and film from DePaul University.

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.