Justice Sought for 76-Year-Old Woman Killed in Liberty City Hit-and-Run

Miami’s Liberty City community is mourning the devastating loss of 76-year-old Koritza Ortiz, who was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash early Monday morning. The incident occurred around 8:09 a.m. at NW 7th Avenue and NW 60th Street, just steps away from Ortiz’s home. Miami Police and Fire Rescue responded to the scene, where Ortiz was tragically pronounced dead.

According to officials, the driver who struck her fled the scene without rendering aid or calling 911.

“This was a preventable loss,” said Miami Police spokeswoman Officer Kiara Delva. “Unfortunately, an innocent person lost her life due to the negligence of the driver who failed to stop, render aid, and contact 911. That could’ve made all the difference. That victim could still be here with us today.”

Under Florida law, drivers involved in crashes, especially those involving injury or death, are legally obligated to remain at the scene, provide assistance, and call emergency services. Fleeing the scene of a fatal crash is a felony and can carry serious legal consequences.

Neighbors have expressed heartbreak and anger over the hit-and-run. “It’s dead wrong. It is a tragedy. You know the poor lady was just trying to cross the street,” said one local resident, David Pontello. Another neighbor, Eduvigis Rivas Jr., added, “You can’t just speed up and down the streets. You need to be more careful… it’s cowardly.”

Ortiz was described as a quiet and kind woman who had lived in the neighborhood for years. Her death leaves a painful void in the community.

Miami Police’s Traffic Homicide Unit is currently investigating. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area in an effort to identify the vehicle and driver responsible. So far, no description has been released to the public.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that may help identify the suspect is urged to contact the Miami Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit at (305) 603-6525. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS (8477), online at crimestoppersmiami.com, or by texting “CSMD” followed by your tip to 274637.

A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest.

What Families Should Know After a Fatal Hit-and-Run

For families like Ms. Ortiz’s, the emotional devastation of losing a loved one is often compounded by unanswered questions, legal challenges, and financial burdens. In cases like these, families may have the right to file a wrongful death claim under Florida law.

Florida Statutes §768.19 allows surviving family members—including spouses, children, or parents—to seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of financial support
• Emotional pain and suffering

Even if the driver has not yet been identified, there may still be potential avenues for recovery, including uninsured motorist coverage, premises liability (if visibility or road conditions played a role), or claims against third parties.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families in the most difficult moments of their lives. Our legal team is experienced in handling fatal car accident and hit-and-run claims across South Florida. If you or your family has lost a loved one in a fatal crash, we’re here to help you understand your rights and take action.