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Miami-Dade County, FL (June 17, 2026) – Two Florida Highway Patrol troopers suffered serious injuries after a vehicle struck a patrol cruiser and trailer on the shoulder of Florida’s Turnpike in Miami-Dade County.
According to Florida Highway Patrol officials, the crash occurred on Monday when a silver FHP truck towing a trailer experienced a flat tire near Northwest 106th Street. Authorities said a marked FHP cruiser was following the truck, and both vehicles pulled onto the shoulder while troopers addressed the disabled trailer.
Investigators reported that a black Cadillac SUV subsequently veered off the roadway and struck the marked patrol cruiser. At the time of the collision, one trooper was standing near the trailer while the second trooper remained inside the cruiser.
The injured troopers were identified as Sgt. Alexis Otano, 54, and Trooper Amaury Quinones, 32. Both were transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Officials stated that their injuries were not considered life-threatening and that both troopers remained hospitalized Tuesday while continuing to recover.
Florida Highway Patrol Chief Matthew Williams said the driver of the Cadillac, identified as 26-year-old Yosnavy Rodríguez, was operating the vehicle with a suspended driver’s license and should not have been driving.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. We hope Sgt. Otano and Trooper Quinones make full and speedy recoveries.
Why Shoulder Crashes Pose Significant Risks for First Responders?
Traffic stops and roadside assistance operations place law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and highway workers in close proximity to moving traffic. Even when emergency vehicles are parked on the shoulder with warning lights activated, passing motorists can pose a serious hazard.
Investigators reviewing shoulder crashes examine driver behavior, roadway conditions, vehicle positioning, and whether distraction, impairment, fatigue, or other factors contributed to a vehicle leaving the travel lanes. These incidents frequently result in severe injuries because responders have little protection from approaching traffic.
Transportation and public safety agencies continue to emphasize “Move Over” laws, which require drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside. Compliance with these laws can significantly reduce the risk of crashes involving first responders and stranded motorists.
