Surveillance footage from an ATM camera near 41st Street and Meridian Avenue in Miami Beach captured a tragic collision between a pickup truck and a motorcyclist on April 15. The incident, deemed a vehicular homicide and reckless driving by Miami Beach Police, resulted in the death of a 34-year-old motorcyclist who was waiting at a red light.
After the crash, body camera video showed officers rushing to help the victim, who had been thrown 90 feet from the scene. Paramedics quickly arrived to assist the injured man, while the driver of the truck, 33-year-old Patrick Schiebel, also appeared on the body camera trying to help.
It took four months for Schiebel to be arrested, during which he confessed to falling asleep at the wheel just before the collision. He claimed that he last remembered seeing the Welcome to Miami Beach sign before the crash occurred. Despite not being at fault in any way, the motorcyclist lost his life in this tragic accident.
An internal affairs investigation was launched to look into the police department’s handling of the case, with Traffic Homicide Investigator Richard Rodriguez being reassigned. Detectives have not provided a reason for the delay in making an arrest, but Schiebel is currently out of jail awaiting trial.
The shocking surveillance video sheds light on the devastating consequences of drowsy driving and serves as a reminder of the importance of staying alert and focused while behind the wheel. It also highlights the intricate investigative process that follows such incidents, as authorities work to ensure justice is served for the victims and their families.
