Family pleads for driver to come forward after 10-year-old girl killed, brother critically injured in hit-and-run

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — The family of two siblings struck by a vehicle Wednesday night while riding an e-bike in northwest Miami-Dade is pleading for the driver to come forward after the 10-year-old girl died and as her older brother remains hospitalized.

Read more Miami-Dade remembers Sept. 11 victims, first responders and a sacrifice that continues

Leer en español

Patrice, the aunt of Peyton and Brent, said the siblings were inseparable.

“They always were together. Always were together,” she said.

The two were together again Wednesday night, riding an electric bicycle near Northwest 117th Street and Northwest Seventh Avenue when authorities said they were struck by a vehicle.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the hit-and-run crash at approximately 8:40 p.m.

Investigators said the driver of a silver or gray 2009-2012 Nissan Versa was traveling northbound on Northwest Seventh Avenue and approaching Northwest 117th Street when the driver made a left turn onto 117th Street.

The vehicle then struck Peyton and Brent as they traveled along Northwest 117th Street on the e-bike, authorities said.

Instead of stopping, investigators said the driver fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Deputies arrived to find both children unresponsive and lying in the roadway.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue transported the siblings to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition.

Peyton died from her injuries Thursday.

Her aunt remembered the 10-year-old as a cheerleader who brought joy to those around her.

“She was a cheerleader, you know, full of life. Everybody loved her,” Patrice said. “And now for this to happen and no one to come forward, it’s just senseless.”

Brother remains hospitalized

Brent remained hospitalized Friday as his family waits for him to wake up.

“I think he just got out of surgery, if I’m not mistaken, and they are just waiting on him to wake up,” Patrice said.

Read more Miami-Dade man made OnlyFans page to post ex’s nude photos, threatened to kill her, cops say

Two days after the crash, a makeshift memorial of candles, balloons and other tributes could be seen near the intersection where the siblings were struck.

Their family is now waiting for answers as investigators continue searching for the person who was behind the wheel.

“They need to turn themselves in, period,” Patrice said. “Just turn yourself in.”

The family is also asking anyone who may know something about the crash to come forward.

“I just hope somebody just comes forward,” Patrice said. “Have a heart, please. Because this could have been anybody’s kids.”

Search for driver continues

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office has asked businesses in the area to review surveillance video and urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact investigators.

“I can only imagine how the parents feel in this situation,” an MDSO spokesperson said. “So we urge the community, please. If you’re a business owner in this area and you happen to have cameras, please review your cameras. If you were here by chance to witness what occurred, please give us a call.”

Detectives with the MDSO Traffic Homicide Unit are investigating.

Anyone with information about the crash or who believes they recognize the vehicle involved is urged to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).

Read more Man accused of pointing realistic-looking airsoft gun at driver during Miami parking dispute