A woman was taken to the hospital after she was struck by a vehicle in Southwest Miami-Dade on Sunday, and one person was arrested, deputies said.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, deputies, at around 2:28 a.m., arrived in the area of 15360 SW 295th Street after receiving reports of a crash involving an elderly pedestrian.
Once at the scene, the woman was airlifted to Jackson South Medical in critical condition.
The woman’s family identified her as 74-year-old Geraldine Byrd.
NBC6 spoke with Byrd’s family, who said she remains in critical but stable condition. They say she was hit just feet away from her front gate.
Neighbors said they were woken up by a large boom.
“We could hear screaming,” Kristina Diaz said. “We could hear everybody telling, asking, ‘Where is she? Oh, she’s under the car, call 911.'”
Moments later, Ring Camera video captured the response as paramedics rushed to the scene.
Byrd’s daughter-in-law said she had just returned home from the Miccosukee Casino, parked her car, and was opening her front gate when she was hit.
Her car was also hit in the crash.
Her family said the driver involved ran off and was chased by another family member.
Deputies said that the driver was then taken into custody.
His identity or the charges he faces were not released.
Neighbors said they’re heartbroken and described Byrd as a kind woman who always looked out for others.
“She was a very nice person,” Diaz said. “Every time she would come out, she would say good morning to us. She always gave my daughter gifts for her birthday. She was a very kind person, so I really hope she pulls through.”
Neighbors are also calling for improvements in the neighborhood that could help prevent another tragedy.
“It’s very scary,” Diaz said. “Especially having a 1-year-old. I’m very concerned. I feel either they have to be more proactive, either put lights or the stop signs need to be more visible.”
An investigation into the incident remains active.
