Tragic Crash Claims Lives of Grandmother and Three Grandchildren in Miami Gardens

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – A tragic car accident on Saturday evening claimed the lives of five individuals, including a grandmother and her three grandchildren, after a driver allegedly sped and drove under the influence of alcohol.

The victims have been identified as 56-year-old Rosa Jones and her grandchildren: 11-year-old Ireanna Johnson, 10-year-old Kamari Graham—who was celebrating his birthday that day—and 9-year-old Azaria McCall. A fifth victim, 13-year-old Jamarya Graham, sustained serious injuries and remains hospitalized alongside her mother, Donika, who is recovering from her injuries.

The crash occurred shortly before 6 p.m. at the intersection of Northwest 37th Avenue and 170th Street. Authorities report that the black Kia Sorento, driven by 25-year-old Antonio Wilcox Jr., collided with the family’s white Nissan Altima, which then struck a silver Cadillac Escalade ahead.

“Speed was a factor, alcohol was also a factor,” Miami Gardens Police Executive Officer Emmanuel Jeanty confirmed to reporters. Surveillance footage captured the moments leading up to the accident, showing the violent impact and the ensuing chaos.

Many neighbors rushed to assist those trapped in the wreckage. Jose Nunez, a local resident who witnessed the crash, described it as a horrifying experience. “There was a loud bang, like an explosion. I saw the Nissan Altima spin several times,” he said. “My first instinct was to help, but the doors were locked.”

Responders from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue arrived quickly with 25 units to provide assistance. Firefighters utilized hydraulic equipment to free the victims from their vehicles.

Wilcox now faces five counts of vehicular homicide. He attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended shortly after by an off-duty officer from the Opa-locka Police Department. As of Monday, records did not indicate his status as an inmate in Miami-Dade County.

The community has been shaken by this incident, with a growing memorial at the crash site, adorned with candles and stuffed animals. Local residents expressed their shock and sorrow for the families involved. “This has devastated a whole family and the entire community,” said Justin Moore, a friend of the victims’ family. “No matter how you feel about them, anyone with a heart feels this pain.”

Authorities continue their investigation, gathering evidence and eyewitness testimonies as the case unfolds. According to police, further charges against Wilcox could be forthcoming. “Alcohol and speed were determining factors in this tragedy. Unfortunately, five lives were lost unnecessarily,” stated Diana Delgado, spokesperson for the Miami Gardens Police Department.

The crash has reignited discussions on traffic safety and the need for stricter regulations regarding reckless driving in Miami-Dade County. As the community mourns, they call for changes to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.