The loved ones of Patricia Valencia, a 47-year-old woman who was killed in a hit-and-run at a Miami bus stop, are calling for justice as police hunt the driver.
Valencia was waiting for the bus Saturday morning when a black Mercedes swerved off the road, crossed the curb and hit three people, said Miami police. She was killed instantly.
“I just really miss her”
Her sister, Katherine Valencia Caro, held back tears as she described the loss.
“She always picked me up, always had my back and was so proud, you know? But I just really miss her and I wish I could talk to her and tell her how thankful I am to have had her as a sister.”
Her mother, Zoraida Valencia, described Patricia as a diligent woman and a dedicated mother of two sons. “I feel terrible right now. He ought to pay for what he did because that is not the right thing to do,” she said.
Crying, she remembered that Patricia was a premature baby and was in the hospital for two months after she was born. “She was my first baby… she was a seven-months baby.”
Valencia’s father, Jose Valencia, indicated the family is shattered. “The problem is we have no words to say how we feel. We are destroyed. We have no tranquility,” he told reporters.
A plea for answers
As police continue to look for the driver, Katherine Valencia Caro grapples with trying to understand the tragedy. “Why? Why were you in such a rush? Was it worth it? You’ve killed somebody, you’ve killed somebody’s mother, sister, daughter,” she said.
She hopes Patricia did not suffer in her last moments. “I hope she didn’t suffer. Watching the video and I can see that she was there, I’m just praying to God that she didn’t suffer.”
Police continue search for driver
The accident occurred at about 9:06 a.m. Saturday at N.W. 17th Ave. and 54th St. Officials stated two occupants of the Mercedes were also hurt, one of whom needed to be removed from the vehicle. Four victims continue hospitalization at the Ryder Trauma Center, one of whom is in critical condition.
A description of the driver, who left the scene, has not been released by the Miami police.
Anyone with information is asked to call Miami Police or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for tips that result in an arrest.