Tag: News

May 16

Father Arrested for Neglect After Toddler Left in Hot Car in West Palm Beach

Disturbing Discovery at a Local Shopping Center

In a concerning incident in West Palm Beach, a father was apprehended after allegedly leaving his young daughter unattended in a scorching SUV. Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, reportedly parked his vehicle at Sam’s Club to shop for Mother’s Day gifts, leaving his 3-year-old in a stifling environment. The child was discovered by a passerby, distressed and alone in the backseat, leading to immediate police intervention.

Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, is handcuffed and placed in a West Palm Beach police vehicle on May 11, 2024.jpg

West Palm Beach Police Department
Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, is handcuffed and placed in a West Palm Beach police vehicle on May 11, 2024.

Immediate Rescue and Legal Consequences

The child, found in a state of distress—crying and visibly overheated—was quickly assisted by shoppers and an off-duty police officer at the scene. Rielo-Fernandez, confronted by police upon exiting the store, claimed to have forgotten his daughter due to the distractions of his shopping tasks. He faces charges of child neglect and leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

Robert Molleda, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami, speaks to WPTV on May 16, 2024.jpg
Robert Molleda, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami, speaks to WPTV on May 16, 2024.

A Stark Reminder from Health Officials

This alarming event serves as a grave reminder from health experts about the rapid and dangerous temperature rise inside parked vehicles. Robert Molleda, a meteorologist, emphasized the lethal potential of such situations, noting that car interiors can reach critical temperatures within minutes. He urged the public to regularly check their vehicles to ensure no child or pet is inadvertently left behind, especially during peak heat periods.

May 16

Revealed: The Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. Include Popular Kia, Hyundai, and Honda Models

The Epidemic of Auto Theft

In the latest report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) for 2023, it’s revealed that vehicles from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda dominate the list of the top ten most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Among these, the Hyundai Elantra tops the list with a staggering 48,445 thefts reported last year, followed by the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima with 42,813 and 30,204 thefts respectively. Ford and Chevrolet also see their models among the most targeted, indicating a widespread issue across various popular brands.

Recovery Rates and Preventative Measures

While vehicle theft remains a significant concern, the NICB notes a recovery rate of over 85% for stolen passenger vehicles, with one-third being recovered within a day of the theft report. NICB President David J. Glawe emphasizes the collaboration with law enforcement and industry partners to implement advanced technologies and strategies to curb these crimes. Owners are urged to remain proactive and vigilant, adopting recommended safety practices to safeguard their vehicles.

Legal and Safety Enhancements

The theft vulnerability of certain Kia and Hyundai models has drawn legal actions, with seventeen state attorneys general suing over the absence of standard immobilizers—devices that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key. In response to a surge in thefts linked to a social media trend and subsequent legal pressure, Hyundai and Kia agreed to a $200 million class-action settlement to address the security flaws. The companies have since updated their software to better protect against theft, aiming to restore confidence among consumers and decrease the likelihood of future incidents.

May 16

Serious Crash Involving Semi and SUV Near Felton Results in Numerous Injuries

Harrowing Collision on Highway 9

Early Thursday morning, a grave accident occurred south of Felton on State Highway 9, involving a semi-truck and an SUV, as confirmed by the Minnesota State Patrol. The collision led to multiple injuries, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Sgt. Jesse Grabow reported that several individuals from both vehicles were urgently transported to hospitals via air and ground ambulances.

Details of the Incident and Immediate Response

According to preliminary investigations, the SUV, which contained six passengers, was heading south on Highway 9 when it collided with the semi traveling west on 90th Ave North. The impact was significant, leading to a range of injuries among the occupants, from non-life-threatening to serious conditions. Emergency teams quickly secured the scene and facilitated the swift transportation of the injured to receive medical care.

Ongoing Investigation and Traffic Impact

The Minnesota State Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this critical incident. The crash caused considerable disruption along Highway 9, with traffic delays as investigative and cleanup operations were underway. Authorities are examining all factors that could have contributed to the crash, including vehicular movement and road conditions at the time of the accident, to understand better and prevent such incidents in the future.

May 16

SUV Submerges in Miami Lakes Canal, One Hospitalized

Incident Summary

Authorities are currently probing an incident where an SUV ended up in a canal in Miami Lakes on Thursday morning. The event occurred near Northwest 67th Avenue, just south of Loch Ness Drive. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) units were dispatched shortly after 10:35 a.m., based on the dispatch information.

Emergency Response and Current Status

By 11 a.m., both Miami-Dade police and fire rescue teams were on-site, as observed in aerial footage from Sky 10. An MDFR spokesperson stated that one person was taken to a local hospital, though the condition was not provided by noon. The quick action from emergency responders highlights the seriousness of the incident.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Precautions

Investigators are looking into what led to the SUV’s plunge into the canal. This situation underscores the need for heightened road safety and vigilance, particularly near water bodies. The public is encouraged to stay alert and report any unusual activities to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

May 16

SUV Driver Rescued from Creek Bed Near Runnells After Rear-End Collision

Emergency Response to Creek Bed Incident

Multiple fire departments and law enforcement agencies collaborated on Wednesday evening to rescue a driver from an SUV that landed in a creek bed near Runnells. According to Captain Ryan Evans of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred just before 7:00 p.m. Initially reported as a water rescue, the correct location was identified as the 9800 block of SE 56th Street, northwest of Runnells.

Details of the Collision and Rescue Effort

Upon arrival, the Pleasant Hill Fire Department found the SUV in a dry creek bed and immediately began treating the driver. Within 10 minutes, first responders had secured and safely transported the driver out of the creek bed. Captain Evans stated that the SUV had been rear-ended, causing it to veer off the road and down the embankment.

Injuries and Collaborative Efforts

Both drivers involved in the collision were taken to metro hospitals by ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries. Updates on their conditions were not available at the time of reporting. The incident saw the cooperation of the Runnells Fire Department, Altoona Fire Department, Pleasant Hill Police and Fire Departments, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, highlighting the community’s robust emergency response capabilities.

May 16

Electric Scooter Rider Fatally Struck by SUV on Route 1 Identified

Incident Details

Authorities have identified the 22-year-old man who tragically lost his life after being hit by an SUV while riding an electric scooter on Route 1 in Edison early Wednesday morning. Raul Montoya-Chavez was attempting to cross the intersection at Plainfield Avenue around 1:45 a.m. when he was struck in the southbound center lane, according to Edison police.

Consequences and Official Statements

Montoya-Chavez, a resident of Edison, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. The driver of the SUV, a 61-year-old man from Rahway, had the right of way with a green light and is not expected to face charges, authorities confirmed. This incident underscores the critical need for heightened awareness and caution among both drivers and those using alternative modes of transportation, especially during late hours.

May 16

Tragic SUV Incident in Raleigh Results in One Fatality and Multiple Injuries

Fatal Accident on Poole Road

In a harrowing incident early Thursday morning, an SUV driver lost control and struck three men who were sitting in front of a residence on Poole Road in Raleigh. The driver, identified as Jelson Molina Carbajal, 28, was reportedly navigating the intersection of Poole Road and New Bern Avenue when the accident occurred. Among the victims was 47-year-old Demetrius Smith, who tragically lost his life due to the impact.

Charges and Hospitalizations

Raleigh police have charged Jelson Molina Carbajal with multiple offenses, including driving while impaired and felony death by vehicle. The accident reportedly happened around 2:15 a.m. when Carbajal, driving a Ford Explorer, hit a curb while turning, overcorrected, and veered across the road, ultimately colliding with the men on the sidewalk. Both the other two victims and Carbajal, along with a passenger from the Explorer, were rushed to the hospital with injuries.

Ongoing Investigations and Community Safety

This tragic event highlights the critical need for vigilance and strict adherence to traffic laws to prevent such devastating accidents. The Raleigh Police are continuing their investigation to fully understand the dynamics of the crash and enforce traffic safety measures. The community is reminded of the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of responsible vehicle operation to protect all road users.

May 16

Major Collision on Olympic Boulevard: Foothill Transit Bus and SUV Involved

Event Summary

A significant collision disrupted early morning commuters in downtown Los Angeles when a Foothill Transit bus and an SUV collided. This incident unfolded at the busy intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Olive Street shortly before 6:00 a.m. on May 16th, with Los Angeles Police Department quickly on the scene to manage the aftermath.

Casualties and Emergency Actions

Injuries were reported following the crash, with the bus driver requiring immediate medical attention. Paramedics were swift to respond, transporting the injured driver to a nearby hospital, though details on their condition have not been released. Meanwhile, the SUV driver, who remained unharmed, stayed at the scene to assist with the police investigation.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Safety

The ongoing investigation aims to ascertain the specifics of the crash, including assigning fault. The Johnson Attorneys Group, noted for their commitment to road safety, highlights this incident as a critical reminder of the importance of adherence to traffic laws. They are actively promoting community engagement in road safety discussions to enhance awareness and prevent future incidents.

May 16

Cyclist Severely Injured in Collision with SUV on Mitchell Road

Tragic Afternoon Incident

On a busy afternoon in Ceres, California, a 59-year-old cyclist suffered critical injuries after an encounter with an SUV. The incident occurred on Mitchell Road just north of Hatch Road around 3:03 p.m. Wednesday. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the injured cyclist.

Details of the Collision

According to the Ceres Police Department, the cyclist was traversing Mitchell Road eastbound from Adrien Way and was crossing the center median when a northbound Chevy Suburban struck him. The impact was severe enough to significantly damage the front of the SUV, indicating the force with which the cyclist was hit. Emergency responders found the man with life-threatening injuries; he was promptly attended to at the scene before being rushed to a local hospital.

Ongoing Investigation and Call for Witnesses

The driver of the Chevy Suburban remained at the scene and cooperated with the law enforcement officers. Early investigations suggest that alcohol was not a contributing factor. The section of Mitchell Road where the accident occurred was closed for several hours as the Ceres Police Traffic Unit Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team conducted their inquiries. The police urge anyone who witnessed the accident to come forward and contact Officer Aaron Pinon to aid in the ongoing investigation.

Additional Information for Cyclists and Motorists:

Cyclists and motorists alike are reminded of the critical importance of vigilance and adherence to road safety measures. This accident highlights the potential dangers of road crossings, especially near medians and intersections where visibility might be compromised. For cyclists, wearing reflective clothing and using proper signaling before making turns or lane changes is crucial. For motorists, maintaining awareness of bicyclists and other smaller vehicles, especially in areas frequented by cyclists, can prevent accidents. Community education programs and improved road signage could also enhance safety for all road users.

May 16

Jeep Enthusiasts Gear Up for the Battlefield Jeep Invasion in Aiken

Jeep Gathering in Aiken

This weekend, Aiken will be the rallying point for Jeep enthusiasts from across the Southeast, as the Battlefield Jeep Invasion 2024 rolls into town. Hosted by the CSRA Jeep Owners Alliance, the event promises to bring together a vibrant community of Jeep lovers at the historic Battle of Aiken park, located at 1210 Powell Pond Road. The gathering is set to showcase a variety of Jeeps, from vintage models to customized modern machines.

Festivities and Entertainment

The event schedule is packed with activities designed to celebrate the Jeep lifestyle. Attendees can look forward to a Jeep parade, an exciting swap meet, and the chance to win prizes in several raffles. For foodies, a selection of food trucks will be available, offering delicious eats throughout the day. The evening will feature a special performance by country music artist Jacob Bryant at 7 p.m., with tickets available for $25, though children 12 and under can enjoy the concert for free.

Jeep Culture Highlights

Jeeps have been an American cultural icon since their initial deployment as military vehicles in 1941. Their rugged design and versatile capabilities have earned them a dedicated global following. At Jeep gatherings, it’s common to see the tradition of “ducking”—placing a toy rubber duck on another’s Jeep as a sign of camaraderie and respect. Additionally, the “Jeep wave,” a quick two-finger salute shared between passing drivers, embodies the spirit of this close-knit community, further celebrated by the brand’s own Jeep Wave loyalty program.