Surveillance Footage Reveals Fatal Miami Beach Hit-and-Run, Leading to Charges and Officer Termination
Newly released surveillance footage has brought to light a tragic hit-and-run incident in Miami Beach that occurred on April 28. The incident has led to charges against a driver and the firing of a Miami Beach police officer for negligence in handling the case.
The Incident
The fatal hit-and-run took place at the intersection of 11th Street and Washington Avenue, right in front of the Miami Beach Police Department. The video shows 63-year-old Esmat Ahmed Ibrahim Khedr riding an electric bicycle when she was struck by a blue Ford Bronco, driven by 43-year-old Demarcus Cortez Harrington of Miramar. After hitting Khedr, the driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid.
Khedr was discovered unconscious on the ground and was immediately rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries.
Harrington’s Arrest
According to an arrest warrant, Harrington attempted to pass Khedr but sideswiped her bicycle, causing her to be ejected and fatally hit her head on the raised curb. A witness reported seeing Harrington check his side mirror after the collision, shrug his shoulders, and drive off without stopping. He later parked the Bronco in a nearby alley and fled the area on foot.
Harrington was arrested on July 30 and charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving death. He remains in jail without bond, and court records indicate he has not yet obtained legal representation.
Witness Testimony
The witness involved in the case told authorities that he and Harrington were driving two Broncos—one blue and one silver—back to their owner when the crash occurred. Upon hearing a “smack” behind him, the witness asked Harrington if he had run someone over, to which Harrington replied, “I don’t know.” Despite the witness’s attempt to convince him to return to the scene, Harrington refused, saying, “I’m not going back to jail,” according to the warrant.
Officer Fired for Failing to Act
In the days following the crash, it came to light that Edward Cavalie, a probationary officer with the Miami Beach Police Department, had been notified of the hit-and-run but failed to respond appropriately. Instead of taking immediate action, Cavalie instructed civilians who reported the collision to enter the police station and file a report themselves.
In a statement released by the Miami Beach Police Department, the department condemned Cavalie’s actions as negligent and in direct violation of departmental policy. “Mr. Cavalie’s employment was terminated immediately,” the department stated. Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne A. Jones added that Cavalie’s behavior was not reflective of the professionalism expected of the department’s officers. “Every member of this department is held to the highest standards,” Jones said. “Our prayers remain with the victim of this tragic incident.”
After The Accident
The tragic hit-and-run has left a lasting impact on the Miami Beach community, highlighting the importance of accountability in both civilian actions and law enforcement conduct. While Harrington faces serious legal consequences, the termination of Officer Cavalie sends a strong message about the expectations placed on police officers to act swiftly and responsibly in the face of emergencies.
This incident also serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of reckless driving and the need for diligence in enforcing traffic safety laws.
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