A man named Sergio Suárez was taken into custody by the Sunrise Police Department in Broward County after towing a vehicle with a four-year-old girl inside. The incident occurred outside the Bistro Criollo restaurant last Sunday.
According to the police report, the girl's father had parked his car "for just two minutes" to pick up food from the restaurant. During this brief moment, Suárez quickly hooked the car to his tow truck and began towing it away.
Upon witnessing the situation, the father frantically ran after the car, shouting that his daughter was still inside. However, the driver ignored his desperate pleas and continued driving.
Shortly thereafter, the young girl fell out of the moving vehicle onto the road. Miraculously, she sustained only minor injuries to her arms and right leg and was transported to Broward Health Medical Center for treatment.
Police managed to have Suárez return to the area shortly after the incident, where he attempted to flee but was subsequently arrested. He is now facing charges of child neglect without causing serious bodily harm.
The case has sparked a heated debate on social media, with users divided over who bears more responsibility: the tow truck driver or the father.
Some argue that the tow operator acted with "inhumane cruelty" by ignoring the father's cries, while others point out that leaving a child unattended in a car, even for a few minutes, is also irresponsible.
Footage of the incident, released by the Sunrise Police Department and shared by Only in Dade, depicts the chaotic scene and has reignited discussions about the lack of regulation and the alleged misconduct of certain towing companies in South Florida. Many residents describe these companies as a "mafia" operating with impunity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Suárez could potentially face additional charges if the prosecution identifies any aggravating factors.
Key Questions About the Florida Towing Incident
What charges is Sergio Suárez facing?
Sergio Suárez is facing charges of child neglect without causing serious bodily harm.
What injuries did the child sustain?
The child sustained minor injuries to her arms and right leg.
What sparked the debate on social media?
The debate was sparked by differing opinions on whether the tow truck driver or the father is more responsible for the incident.