Miami fire officials say a woman driving a white BMW on Brickell Bay Drive narrowly escaped serious harm when a construction crane collapsed onto her vehicle early Monday morning.
At about 8 a.m., the crane at a nearby site gave way while the driver was traveling near Southeast 12th Street. According to Miami Fire Chief Robert Hevia, the woman saw the crane begin to fall, quickly shifted into reverse, and managed to pull the SUV back just enough to keep the crane from crushing the entire car.
When the crane landed, its boom struck the front of the BMW, igniting a fire. The driver was able to exit the vehicle through the rear door after moving it a short distance away from the impact zone. She was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.
Fire chief’s remarks and faith‑based gratitude
Chief Hevia told reporters that first‑responders were impressed by the driver’s quick thinking. “We’ve been in contact with her, really told her ‘count your blessings, God was watching over you today,’” Hevia said. “To be able to see the crane fall, pull the car in reverse and get out while the car’s on fire – really incredible. Today’s a new birthday for her.”
The incident also involved two construction workers who were inside a box that the crane landed on, as well as the crane operator. All three were rescued with only minor injuries, according to the fire department.
Scene and response
Aerial footage from a local news helicopter showed the burnt wreckage of the BMW with the crane’s boom resting on its front end. Two additional parked cars were struck by the falling structure, but no occupants were inside those vehicles.
Hevia, a veteran of the Miami Fire Department with 28 years of service, praised the overall outcome. “When you see the scene it’s impressive the fact that we had four victims and they were all able to be extricated or self‑extricate themselves with minor injuries is a remarkable day for them,” he said.
The cause of the crane collapse is still under investigation by city officials and the construction company. No further road closures were reported after the site was secured, and Brickell Bay Drive reopened to traffic later in the morning.
Community impact
Residents expressed relief that the incident did not result in more serious injuries or fatalities. The swift response by fire and emergency personnel highlighted the importance of preparedness and quick decision‑making in urban construction zones.
Authorities are reminding the public to stay alert around active construction sites and to follow any posted safety instructions. The Miami Fire Department continues to monitor the area for any lingering hazards.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
