Miami Beach Police Officer Dies After Tragic Motorcycle Crash on I-75

The Miami Beach Police Department and the South Florida community are mourning the loss of Officer David Cajuso, who died Tuesday after a devastating motorcycle crash along Interstate 75 in northwest Miami-Dade County.

According to officials, the crash occurred Tuesday morning along the northbound lanes of I-75 near Northwest 138th Street. Officer Cajuso, a veteran Miami Beach Police motorman, was critically injured and airlifted to a nearby trauma center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is leading the investigation, and details regarding the cause of the crash remain under review. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether another vehicle was involved or if road conditions contributed to the incident.

The Miami Beach Police Department released a heartfelt statement following the announcement of his passing:

“Officer Cajuso faithfully served our Miami Beach community for ten years with courage and an unwavering commitment to public service.”

Officer Cajuso leaves behind a wife and three children. His dedication to protecting others and his reputation for professionalism and integrity have left a lasting impact on his department and the city he served. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced once finalized.

Motorcycle officers, or motormen, face extraordinary danger every day on Florida’s highways. Unlike patrol vehicles, motorcycles offer no external protection — and even minor collisions can lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), more than 600 motorcyclists are killed annually in Florida, making it one of the most dangerous states in the nation for riders. Many of these tragedies result from driver negligence, such as failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, or distracted driving.

Investigating the Cause of a Fatal Motorcycle Accident

When a fatal motorcycle crash occurs — whether involving a civilian or law enforcement officer — investigators must determine whether factors such as:

• Unsafe lane changes or failure to yield by another driver
• Poor roadway maintenance or debris
• Weather conditions or visibility issues
• Mechanical defects or tire failure

contributed to the collision. Establishing liability is critical for both transparency and accountability, particularly when the crash involves a public servant who was on duty or traveling for work-related purposes.

Support for Families of Fallen Officers and Motorcycle Accident Victims

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§§768.16–768.26), surviving family members of individuals killed due to negligence may seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical and emergency care costs
• Loss of companionship, support, and guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Lost wages and future income

In cases involving law enforcement officers, families may also qualify for additional state and federal line-of-duty death benefits. These claims can be complex, requiring experienced legal representation to navigate insurance and government compensation systems.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and community of Officer David Cajuso. Our firm has represented families across Florida who have lost loved ones in motorcycle and traffic-related tragedies, and we understand the immense grief that follows such an unexpected loss.

If your loved one has been killed in a motorcycle crash or line-of-duty accident in South Florida, the attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm are here to help.

📞 Call 305-638-4143 or contact us online for a free consultation in English or Spanish.