Miami Gardens, FL (February 10, 2025) – A devastating multi-vehicle crash in Miami Gardens on Saturday evening claimed the lives of a woman and four children, leaving the community in mourning. According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR), emergency crews responded to the scene of the “mass casualty incident” at NW 170th St and 37th Ave shortly before 6 p.m.
First responders, including paramedics and fire crews, arrived quickly to find a chaotic scene involving a white Nissan Altima, a black Kia Sorento, and a silver Cadillac Escalade. Three individuals were trapped inside one of the vehicles and had to be extricated by rescue teams. A total of nine people were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Emergency medical services transported four children and one adult by ground to area hospitals, while another child was airlifted to a trauma center in Hollywood under a trauma alert. Additionally, four more individuals were taken to a Broward County hospital via ground transport. Tragically, officials later confirmed that a woman and four children succumbed to their injuries. The conditions of the remaining victims have not yet been disclosed.
According to preliminary reports from Miami Gardens Police, the crash occurred when the Kia Sorento struck the Nissan Altima, pushing it into the Cadillac Escalade before the Kia crashed into a fence. An Opa-Locka Police officer, who witnessed the crash while en route to work, provided crucial details to investigators.
Authorities identified the driver of the Kia as 25-year-old Antonio Wilcox. He remained at the scene and was subsequently detained by police. Wilcox is currently facing five counts of vehicular homicide, with additional charges pending the results of his toxicology report. Investigators believe that speed and alcohol played significant roles in the collision.
Miami Gardens Police’s Traffic Homicide detectives are continuing their investigation into the crash. Traffic along 37th Ave between 169th and 171st Streets remains closed as authorities work to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
“Our hearts go out to the victims’ families during this incredibly difficult time,” said Miami Gardens Police Executive Officer Emmanuel Jeanty. “It’s a very tough night for our community, our officers, and fire rescue personnel who responded to this heartbreaking scene.”
Multi-Vehicle Collisions in Florida
Saturday’s tragic accident in Miami Gardens highlights the devastating consequences that multi-vehicle collisions can have on families and communities alike. These types of crashes often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the complex nature of multiple vehicles colliding in quick succession. In Florida, where busy roadways and high-speed travel are common, multi-vehicle crashes remain a significant concern for public safety officials.
In this incident, factors like excessive speed and alcohol use were identified as contributing causes. Sadly, such behaviors are frequently cited in serious collisions across the state. The involvement of children in this crash further underscores the importance of safe driving practices, especially in residential areas where families may be traveling together.
While emergency responders acted swiftly to provide care and transport victims to trauma centers, the emotional toll on first responders and the broader community is profound. Traffic Homicide investigations like this one aim to uncover all contributing factors, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
For residents in Florida, this heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the importance of cautious driving, especially regarding speed limits and impaired driving. It also highlights the need for continued education on road safety and the resources available to those affected by traffic accidents.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a serious accident, support is available. Legal and medical professionals can provide guidance on the next steps, while community resources may offer emotional and financial support during the recovery process.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a car accident, know that you’re not alone. At Local Accident Reports, we are dedicated to providing timely updates and resources to help you navigate these challenging times. Whether you’re seeking legal guidance, medical care, or simply need support, our team is here to assist. Contact us today to learn more about the resources available to you and how we can help you move forward after an accident.