Miami Beach, FL – Excessive Drinking Leads to Fatal Crash on West 63rd Street and Alton Road

MIAMI BEACH, Florida (July 30, 2024) – In the early hours of July 10, a fatal crash on the streets of Miami Beach has led to the arrest of a 27-year-old man on charges of DUI manslaughter. The incident, which resulted in the death of a female passenger, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about the dangers of impaired driving.

Local law enforcement officials report that Hakeem Jerrod Smith, 27, a resident of North Beach, was taken into custody on Monday in connection with the crash. 

At Magazine & Light Law Group, our Car accident attorneys in Clearwater, FL have been closely monitoring the developments of this high-profile incident. We wish to express our deepest sympathy to the victim’s family. 

Details of the Fatality Accident in Miami Beach

According to the Miami Beach Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 2:55 a.m. on July 10 at the intersection of West 63rd Street and Alton Road. Smith, operating a black Mercedes-Benz GLE350, failed to navigate a curve while traveling at a speed exceeding the posted 20 mph limit. The vehicle subsequently jumped the curb and collided with a palm tree.

The passenger in the vehicle, identified as Tatiana T. Wolfe, sustained critical injuries in the crash. Emergency services rushed her to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where she was pronounced deceased.

Driver’s Condition and Blood Alcohol Content

Smith was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital for treatment following the collision. Hospital staff reported that the driver made statements indicating he had consumed alcohol prior to the incident. Subsequent blood tests, conducted approximately two and three hours after the crash, revealed blood alcohol content levels of .232% and .226% respectively – nearly triple the legal limit of 0.08%.

An investigation into the events leading up to the collision revealed that Smith and Wolfe had visited two establishments in the Lincoln Road area before the incident. Police reports indicate that Smith allegedly consumed approximately twelve alcoholic beverages between 10:54 p.m. and 2:35 a.m.

During an interview with law enforcement, Smith reportedly made a statement that was redacted from the official report. He claimed to have no recollection of how the crash occurred, despite being familiar with the area and having driven there for years.

Driver Facing DUI Manslaughter Charges

Smith surrendered to authorities on Monday and is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on DUI manslaughter charges. As of Tuesday morning, he was detained on a $10,000 bond with a pending magistrate hold.

As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits further developments in this heartbreaking case.

Legal Implications and Victim Rights

This tragic incident underscores the severe consequences of driving under the influence and the critical importance of understanding one’s legal rights in such situations. At Magazine & Light Law Group in Clearwater, FL, emphasizes the complexities involved in DUI accident cases like these.

Our attorneys emphasize that it’s crucial for victims’ families to understand their rights and the legal options available to them.

In Florida, DUI manslaughter is a second-degree felony, carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, the legal ramifications extend beyond criminal charges. Victims’ families may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and pain and suffering.

Our legal team stresses the importance of prompt legal consultation in such cases. Time is of the essence in preserving evidence and building a strong case. We encourage anyone affected by a DUI-related accident to seek experienced legal counsel as soon as possible.

Our accident attorneys play a critical role in the investigation of these types of cases, including analyzing blood alcohol content results, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses. Such meticulous preparation can be crucial in ensuring justice for victims and their families.

As this case progresses, it serves as a somber reminder of the far-reaching impacts of impaired driving and the vital role that experienced legal representation plays in navigating the aftermath of such tragic events.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association