Miami linebacker Adarius Hayes faces serious legal trouble. He has been charged with three counts of vehicular homicide and one count of reckless driving stemming from a crash in May that claimed the lives of three people.
On Friday, Hayes turned himself in to police in Largo, Florida, where he was booked into the Pinellas County Jail. It’s not clear if he has hired an attorney yet. In response to the charges, the Miami Hurricanes have placed him on indefinite suspension from all athletic activities.
The fatal incident occurred on May 10 when a Kia Soul, carrying a 78-year-old woman and two young children, was struck by Hayes’ Dodge Durango. Tragically, the children, ages 10 and 4, were ejected from their vehicle. A passenger in the Kia also suffered serious injuries.
Investigators reported that Hayes was driving at nearly double the speed limit—almost 79 mph in a 40 mph zone. Witnesses noted that he was aggressively changing lanes just before the crash, showing a blatant disregard for the safety of others on the road. According to police, the Kia was making a lawful left turn when Hayes’ vehicle struck it.
Hayes had a promising start with the Miami Hurricanes. He played 12 games last season, primarily on special teams, and was considered a standout four-star recruit from Largo High School.
Incidents like this raise questions about road safety and the consequences of reckless driving. In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported over 46,000 deaths from traffic accidents in the U.S., highlighting a steady increase in fatalities over the years. This case serves as a reminder of the gravity of responsible driving, especially among young athletes who serve as role models.
As the legal process unfolds, many will be watching closely, not just for the outcome, but for how this incident impacts discussions around athlete behavior and accountability on and off the field.
For more insights on traffic safety, visit NHTSA’s official site.