A fatal hit-and-run crash in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood has led to criminal charges and widespread public outrage, after the driver, 32-year-old Ivana Gomez, allegedly made a chilling comment about the victim that police and prosecutors described as both callous and dehumanizing.
Incident Details
According to Miami police, the crash occurred around 1:15 a.m. Friday morning. Gomez was allegedly driving a BMW when she struck 41-year-old pedestrian Katherine Kipnis with such force that the impact shattered the windshield and dragged the victim partially into the vehicle. Hair from Kipnis was later found entangled in the car’s seatbelt.
An officer who witnessed the crash attempted to stop Gomez, but she reportedly continued driving for several blocks before being forced to stop due to traffic. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer noted that Gomez had bloodshot eyes and smelled strongly of alcohol, according to arrest records.
The Victim
Katherine Kipnis was pronounced dead at the scene. Local residents described her as a woman experiencing homelessness, often seen in the neighborhood but never a threat to anyone. Community advocates have expressed sadness and frustration over how the incident reflects broader issues of how unhoused individuals are perceived and treated in society.
The Driver’s Statement
According to the arrest affidavit, when officers confronted Gomez about the crash, she reportedly responded, “It was just a homeless person that I hit” and later added, “It’s just an accident.” Prosecutors repeated these remarks during her bond hearing, emphasizing their disturbing nature.
However, Gomez has denied making the comments, telling the judge: “Your Honor, I never said that. I did not say that whatsoever. That’s false.” Her defense attorney has not issued a public statement.
Legal Proceedings
Gomez is currently charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving death (a felony) and resisting an officer without violence. She is being held at the Miami-Dade County Jail with bond set at $251,500.
During the bond hearing, the judge acknowledged the seriousness of the charges, citing both the alleged statements and the attempt to flee the scene. “The callous disregard shown in both the action and the aftermath is deeply concerning,” the judge remarked.
Public Reaction and Broader Issues
The incident has sparked emotional responses on social media and from local advocacy groups, especially due to the alleged comment referring to the victim as “just a homeless person.” Many have called for broader discussions on societal attitudes toward the unhoused and how the legal system values their lives.
“It’s heartbreaking, but unfortunately not surprising,” said local activist Maria Leal. “This is what happens when people are reduced to stereotypes or seen as disposable.”
The case has also reignited discussions around DUI enforcement, driver accountability, and the need for mental health and substance abuse support for repeat offenders. The Miami Police Department confirmed that Gomez has no prior record but noted the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.
What Happens Next
Gomez’s next court appearance is scheduled for later this month. Meanwhile, community members have planned a vigil for Katherine Kipnis at the site of the crash, hoping to honor her life and bring awareness to the dangers faced by Miami’s most vulnerable populations.
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