Driver Charged with Vehicular Homicide in Fatal Crash
A 33-year-old driver, Michael Anthony Smith, has been arrested and charged with vehicular homicide in a reckless manner in a crash that killed a 14-year-old boy, Lazaro Martinez, in southwest Miami-Dade.
Accident Details
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Martinez was attempting to cross the street on Southwest 112th Avenue near 232nd Street in Princeton when a black Audi struck him. The accident occurred on November 26.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that Smith, who was driving the Audi, stayed at the scene. Authorities found the Audi with severe front damage and its airbags deployed. Martinez was thrown over 100 feet from where he was initially hit by the Audi.
A 10-year-old witness who was crossing the street with Martinez said the Audi was speeding, and data from the car showed it was going 81 mph at the time of the crash, in an area with a posted 40 mph speed limit. The data also showed the Audi was at 100% acceleration at the time of the crash and there was no braking before or at the moment of the crash.
Charges and Arrest
Smith was arrested on Monday at the Florida Highway Patrol headquarters in Doral before being booked into jail. He was charged with vehicular homicide in a reckless manner.
Court Appearance
During Smith’s court appearance on Tuesday, a prosecutor noted that he has no criminal history but asked that his bond be set at $25,000. Smith’s defense attorney asked for a $15,000 bond, noting that he cooperated with authorities and voluntarily surrendered. The judge set Smith’s bond at $20,000 and ordered him not to drive for the time being.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving. The community is mourning the loss of Lazaro Martinez, a young boy who was taken from his family and friends too soon.
FAQs
Q: Who was the victim in the accident?
A: Lazaro Martinez, a 14-year-old boy, was the victim in the accident.
Q: What was the cause of the accident?
A: The accident was caused by a black Audi driven by Michael Anthony Smith, who was traveling at a speed of 81 mph in a 40 mph zone.
Q: What was the charge brought against the driver?
A: Michael Anthony Smith was charged with vehicular homicide in a reckless manner.
Q: What was the outcome of the court appearance?
A: Smith’s bond was set at $20,000, and he was ordered not to drive for the time being.
