Driver struck while she crossed the street near 73rd Street
March 18, 2026 | Miami, FL
A devastating vehicular incident claimed the lives of two visitors in Miami Beach, highlighting the dangers of impaired and reckless driving on busy roadways.
Miami Beach authorities are investigating a deadly pedestrian crash that occurred on a Wednesday evening, involving a driver who fled the scene after striking victims at a major intersection.
Sarisa Kongduang, 22, died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Collins Avenue at 73rd Street in Miami Beach.
What Happened in the Crash?
The collision occurred as two pedestrians were lawfully crossing a thoroughfare in the heart of the beach district when they were struck by an oncoming vehicle without proper illumination.
- Date and Time: March 18, around 9 p.m.
- Location: Collins Avenue at 73rd Street, Miami Beach, Florida
- Victims: Sarisa Kongduang, 22, and a 24-year-old companion, both tourists from Indiana
- Suspect: Adan Negron-Morris, 42, from Lakeland, Florida
- Vehicle: 2013 Nissan Sentra, driven without headlights
- Immediate Aftermath: Both victims were thrown into the air and transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center, where they were pronounced dead
Following the collision, the driver proceeded northward until his car malfunctioned nearby. He attempted to escape by running into an adjacent retail establishment, but was subdued by a bystander until law enforcement secured the area.
Why Did the Suspect Flee the Scene?
Law enforcement statements indicate the driver admitted to suicidal intentions during questioning. An investigation into driving under the influence is underway, awaiting lab analysis for substances. Officials believe drug impairment could be a factor.
Earlier that evening, the same individual participated in a separate collision and departure at another nearby junction. A patrol unit gave chase but could not maintain visual contact before the lethal crash.
The accused is charged with two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and two counts of leaving the scene of a crash causing death. Detention is at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.
Crash Statistics and Causes
Traffic fatalities continue to pose a significant public health challenge nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 40,000 lives are lost each year in such incidents, often linked to high speeds and substance use.
Factor |
Contribution to Fatal Crashes |
Source |
|---|
Speeding |
29% of all fatal crashes |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Distracted Driving |
8% of fatalities |
CDC |
Impaired Driving (Alcohol/Drugs) |
31% of deaths |
NHTSA |
Hit-and-Run Incidents |
Over 2,000 annual fatalities |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
The data reflect national averages from 2022 reports, and local investigations vary.
Legal Insights
Analysts in national legal circles stress the need for detailed investigations into vehicle accidents to identify root causes and assist those impacted.
“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal.
For incidents like this, an unbiased examination helps safeguard vital evidence.
- Key Takeaways:
- Conduct background checks on drivers to uncover prior incidents.
- Review police reports alongside insurance details for a comprehensive understanding.
- Hire specialists to analyze crash dynamics and contributing factors.
- Guide families in navigating complex legal processes post-tragedy.
"Pending the investigation, families may be entitled to a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident such as this," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
"The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident. We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected," added Formica.
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).