In a tragic event on Monday, 56-year-old Lucrecia Cardozo lost her life in Miramar, Florida, after falling from a mango tree located in her backyard while picking fruit. The incident was confirmed by the Miramar Police Department to CBS News Miami.
The unfortunate accident took place in the Grand Caye subdivision of the Silver Lakes Phase 3 community, near Southwest 176th Avenue and Southwest 21st Street, west of Interstate 75.
Accident Details and Immediate Response
Authorities reported that Cardozo used a ladder to reach the mangos when she lost her balance and fell, suffering injuries that proved fatal. The ladder remained at the scene following the incident.
A neighbor discovered her lying on the ground beside the tree and promptly called 911. Her family, including her 16-year-old daughter, was inside the house at the time and did not witness the fall.
Investigation Findings
Miramar Police detectives spent much of Monday examining the scene, with Chopper 4 flying overhead. Cardozo's body remained covered with a tarp beside the tree during the investigation.
Police spokesperson Janice McIntosh ruled out any criminal activity, labeling the event as an accident. "Remember, accidents happen," McIntosh stated. "This woman was picking mangoes from her tree, fell, and succumbed to her injuries. It was entirely innocent. She was just collecting mangoes and fell."
Cardozo's ex-husband confirmed to the media that she lived in the house with her teenage daughter, and the family is in shock over the sudden loss. The family has chosen not to make public statements.
Community Remembers a Kind Neighbor
Those who knew Lucrecia Cardozo remember her as a kind-hearted and generous person. Long-time neighbor Ryan Raymond fondly recalled how she would share mangos from the same tree with local families.
"Whenever she came around, it was such a sweet gesture to just give away mangoes from the big trees in her yard," Raymond said. "My brother loved those mangoes. He was always happy. She was very kind."
The tree, once a symbol of generosity and community in Grand Caye, is now a reminder of a tragic loss.
Authorities Issue Safety Warning
In light of the incident, authorities have issued a public safety warning about the dangers of fruit-picking from trees, a common practice in South Florida during mango season, which extended through late July and August in 2026.
McIntosh urged residents to take precautions: "We want people to be careful with ladders and nearby electrical lines, as they can pose a hazard."
Another officer added, "Be cautious. There could be power lines, anything; be careful when picking mangoes. Watch your children and the height of the trees. We sympathize with the family, but accidents can occur at any moment."
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in Florida, accounting for approximately 2,700 fatalities and over 67,800 hospitalizations annually, according to the state's Department of Health.
Miramar, a city in Broward County with a Hispanic population of about 41%, is a community where the tradition of growing and picking mangoes in backyards is deeply ingrained. Just three days before the accident, the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office released a video reminding the public about fines for picking fruit on private property without permission, although in this case, Cardozo was picking mangoes from her own tree.
The police investigation remains open as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fall.
Understanding the Risks of Fruit-Picking in Florida
What safety precautions should be taken when picking fruit from trees?
It is important to use stable ladders, be aware of nearby power lines, and ensure that someone is present to assist if necessary.
Why are falls a significant concern in Florida?
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in Florida, with thousands of related deaths and hospitalizations annually, making safety a critical concern.