UPDATE: A 21-year-old Hialeah resident, Kevin Brito Rios, has been charged with vehicular homicide following a deadly head-on collision that occurred just before 9 p.m. on July 10, 2023. Authorities report that Rios’ reckless driving, clocked at speeds of 80 mph in a 30 mph zone, directly led to the tragic incident near W. 20th Avenue and W. 76th Street.
Witnesses and police reports confirm that Rios was driving a 2022 Toyota Supra when he was first spotted speeding by law enforcement. An officer attempted to pursue him after registering his excessive speed. During this chase, Rios was seen dangerously weaving through traffic, overtaking other vehicles, and even entering oncoming lanes, demonstrating an alarming level of recklessness.
The situation escalated as Rios failed to negotiate a curve, at which point his vehicle crossed into the opposite lane, colliding head-on with a Ford Mustang. The impact was catastrophic, resulting in immediate injuries to the driver and passenger of the Mustang, who were rushed to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital. Tragically, the Mustang’s driver succumbed to their injuries the following day, marking a devastating outcome from this high-speed chase.
Vehicle data retrieved from the Mustang indicates that Rios’ speed was still a minimum of 54 mph seconds before the collision, despite being in a 35 mph zone. Rios remained at the scene post-accident and was later arrested at his apartment by Hialeah police.
Currently, Rios is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with his bond status pending. This incident has raised significant concerns about road safety and the consequences of reckless driving in the community.
As authorities continue their investigation, local residents are urged to stay informed on this developing story. Public safety advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community mourns the loss of life, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness around reckless driving behaviors.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
