Tow truck driver killed in hit and run accident

SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, Fla. (WSVN) -- A tow truck driver died after a hit-and-run driver struck him while he tried to load a car on his truck.

The incident occurred early Monday morning around 2:15, on the shoulder of the Don Shula Expressway, over Miller Drive.

State troopers said Vincent Torres, of Black Eagle Towing, was loading a disabled Lexus, when a driver slammed right into him and took off. "All of a sudden, a purple Hyundai comes southbound in the center lane or the left lane, veered to the right, ran down the tow truck driver and fled from the scene," said Pat Santangelo of the Florida Highway Patrol.

Fire Rescue responded and had to amputate Torres' leg at the scene. Rescue crew members transported Torres to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where doctors later pronounced him dead.

His brother, Rolando Torres, was in tears over the loss. "He has a wife and two kids he just brought from Cuba," said the brother through a translator. "He means everything to me."

Co-workers said it was just his third day on the job and are devastated. "We're in shock, because I mean these are drivers that are out in the street, and they're helping people that are in distress," said Maria Torres.

The Hyundai has right front damage and is missing the side view mirror on the right door as a result of the collision. The mirror left at the scene provided police with the color and model of the car that killed Torres.

Black Eagle Towing is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest.

If you have any information on this hit and run, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous.

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