Largo Car Crash Involving UM Linebacker Leaves 3 Dead

On May 10, 2025, a devastating two-vehicle crash in Largo, Florida claimed the lives of three people, including two children, and left others seriously injured. Among those involved in the crash was 20-year-old Miami Hurricanes linebacker Adarius Hayes, who was driving a Dodge Durango at the time of the collision. While Hayes has since been released from the hospital, the consequences of this tragedy continue to unfold for the victims’ families.

According to Largo Police, the crash occurred around 1:45 p.m. at the intersection of Orangeview Drive and Ridge Road when the Durango collided with a Kia Soul making a left turn. The crash killed three occupants of the Kia: 78-year-old driver Gail Price, 10-year-old Jabari Elijah Solomon, and 4-year-old Charlie Herbert Solomon Rivera. A fourth passenger, 58-year-old Herbert Rivera, survived with serious injuries.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities reviewing whether speed played a factor. No signs of alcohol impairment were reported, and no criminal charges have been filed as of this writing.

While the public often focuses on high-profile names involved in car accidents, the spotlight must remain on the immense loss suffered by the families of the deceased. Losing loved ones, especially children, in a preventable crash is an unimaginable tragedy. These families are now facing not only overwhelming grief, but also potential medical bills, funeral expenses, and long-term financial impacts.

In Florida, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim if negligence played a role in the accident. Understanding this process can help families seek the justice and compensation they deserve.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?

Under Florida Statutes § 768.16–768.26, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or misconduct of another party. These claims are civil, not criminal, and are typically brought by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of eligible survivors.

In a car accident case, potential defendants in a wrongful death lawsuit may include:

• A negligent driver
• A vehicle manufacturer (if a defect was involved)
• A government entity (if poor road conditions or faulty signage played a role)

Under Florida law, the following people may recover damages through a wrongful death claim:

• The surviving spouse
• Children of the deceased (including minor children)
• Parents of a deceased minor child (or, in some cases, an adult child)
• Any blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were partly or wholly dependent on the decedent for support

In the case of children who die in a crash, both parents typically have the legal right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Damages That May Be Recovered After a Fatal Car Accident

Surviving families may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and guidance (especially for parents of minor children)
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of financial support (if the deceased was a wage earner)
• Loss of future services or contributions

Each case is unique, and the specific damages depend on the age of the victim, their relationship to the survivor, and other individual factors.

How Is Liability Proven in a Fatal Crash?

To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit, the plaintiff must show that the defendant’s negligence caused the accident and resulting death. In car crash cases, negligence may include:

• Speeding
• Failing to yield or obey traffic signals
• Distracted driving (e.g., texting or using GPS)
• Driving aggressively or carelessly

While criminal charges are not required to pursue a wrongful death claim, any evidence uncovered during a police investigation can be critical in proving liability.

In this case, although no charges have been filed yet, police are still examining whether speed was a contributing factor. Should it be found that the Dodge Durango was speeding or driving unsafely at the time of the collision, that could potentially open the door to civil liability, even if no criminal charges are filed.

The tragic crash in Largo involving Adarius Hayes is a sobering reminder that life can change in an instant. For the families of Gail Price, Jabari Solomon, and Charlie Solomon Rivera, the road ahead will be incredibly difficult, but they may have legal options that can provide support, accountability, and justice.

In Florida, the statute of limitations for most wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death. Failing to file within this window can result in the permanent loss of your right to recover damages.

If you have lost a loved one in a car crash anywhere in Florida, call Flanagan & Bodenheimer at 305-638-4143 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the justice your family deserves.