Johnny Baptiste struck by speeding car in Miami Gardens crash

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Johnny Baptiste struck by speeding car in Miami Gardens crash

MIAMI GARDENS, FL, (April 27, 2026) – An 11-year-old boy was seriously injured Monday morning after being struck by a vehicle while walking to school in Miami Gardens, according to police.

Authorities said Johnny Baptiste Jr. was walking to school when a Ford Fusion traveling south at a high rate of speed swerved off the roadway to avoid slowed traffic. The vehicle entered the swale, struck a tree, and then hit the child.

Johnny Baptiste suffered serious head injuries and was airlifted by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to Ryder Trauma Center. He was initially listed in serious but stable condition and has since been released from the hospital, where he is recovering at home.

Police identified the driver as 23-year-old Jalen Darius Forbes, who was arrested and charged with reckless driving. He has since been released on bond.

The Miami Gardens Police Department continues to investigate the incident.


PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable road users, facing daily risks on roadways. While everyone must exercise caution, drivers carry a significant share of responsibility.

In 2018, approximately 150,000 pedestrians were injured in motor vehicle crashes, according to the National Safety Council.

Common causes of pedestrian accidents include distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield.

“Having adequate resources is critical when investigating a pedestrian crash and establishing negligence,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst for Accident Injury News.

“Factors such as roadway conditions, visibility, and lighting must be thoroughly evaluated,” Bond added. “These steps are essential in helping victims or their families obtain the justice they deserve.”

Bond further emphasized, “In most cases, pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing a street or intersection, even outside marked crosswalks, and drivers are required to yield.”


PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM

Johnny Baptiste may have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit pending the results of the investigation.

Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal, stated, “Victims injured in collisions often pursue personal injury claims to recover costs related to medical treatment, future care, lost income, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.”

“Insurance companies are often unconcerned with the growing expenses faced by victims. An attorney can make a difference by advocating for fair compensation and holding insurers accountable,” Formica added.


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in serious injury pedestrian accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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