The relatives of an elderly Cuban couple tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident in Hialeah are overwhelmed with grief. "This has truly been a massive family tragedy," expressed María, the couple's only daughter, in a statement to local media. The couple, married for over 50 years, had lived in the area where the accident occurred for 45 years. "If you hit even a small animal, you should stop and check," María said, shocked by the callousness of the driver who fled the scene, leaving the elderly couple's bodies sprawled on the road.
Jorge Alonso, the victims' son-in-law, echoed María's sentiments, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the family. "The immense pain she's enduring is shared by all of us," he stated, revealing that his wife had no children and that "those two elderly people were like her own children." The deceased couple, Julio Eduardo Hernández, 87, and Manuela Hernández, 84, were known for their deep bond and were often seen walking hand-in-hand everywhere.
The Aftermath of Tragedy
Jorge Alonso expressed a sense of solace knowing justice will prevail, trusting that divine intervention will ensure everyone is held accountable in due time. "That woman, whom we don't know, should have stayed, should have called for help," he added, referring to the driver.
The fatal accident took place around 7 p.m. on a Sunday at the intersection of 48th Street and East 8th Avenue in Hialeah. Julio and Manuela were returning from purchasing their usual Powerball ticket when they were struck. The elderly couple lived in an adjoining house with their daughter and son-in-law and were accustomed to walking in the neighborhood.
Swift Action by Authorities
The family expressed gratitude for the prompt action taken by the authorities, as the police apprehended the suspect, Sucej Calcines, 47, at her home just over an hour after the incident. Surveillance footage helped track her black 2007 Mercedes Benz GL450. Calcines now faces two charges of vehicular homicide and two charges of leaving the scene of a fatal accident, potentially leading to a 76-year prison sentence. She appeared in Miami-Dade criminal court on Tuesday, with bail set at $30,000.
Legal Ramifications and Responsibilities
Authorities stress the severe legal repercussions of fleeing an accident scene. Initially, it's merely an "accident," but leaving without providing aid turns it into a felony. In Florida, penalties for abandoning the scene of an accident resulting in death or severe bodily injury are harsh. Such an offense can be classified as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison or probation, and a $10,000 fine.
Beyond human empathy, which should always prompt aid to those in need, legal obligations require individuals involved in accidents to remain at the scene, ensure the well-being of all drivers and passengers, and promptly notify law enforcement.