Laborer Charged In Slaying Of Bicyclist On Rickenbacker Causeway

MIAMI, FL — A 41-year-old laborer was charged with second-degree murder Friday following the shooting death of a bicyclist earlier this week along the Rickenbacker Causeway, according to the Miami Police Department.

Kadel Piedrahita was also charged with aggravated assault with a firearm in connection with the death of 48-year-old Alexis Palencia, who was out for an early morning bike ride with more than a dozen cyclists when he was shot once in the stomach.

Police revealed Friday that Piedrahita also allegedly pointed the handgun at a second man and allegedly walked toward him while "screaming profanities," according to arrest documents.

“This is another senseless shooting and in of all places, on our beautiful Rickenbacker Causeway, where an enjoyable early morning bike ride turned into something so tragic," said Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. "This gun violence will not be tolerated."

Lt. Freddie Cruz of the Miami Police Department told Patch earlier that there was an exchange of words between Palencia and the shooter before the shot was fired.

"The witnesses have personally known the defendant for several years through their cycling group," arrest documents said, adding that Piedrahita invoked his right to remain silent.

Palencia was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition, where he died several hours following the 6:38 a.m. shooting.

The causeway is the only way in and out of Key Biscayne by land. It connects the city of Miami to to Crandon Park, the Miami Seaquarium and other attractions.

"It is outrageous that a group of cyclists cannot enjoy their daily ride without fear," Fernandez Rundle added.

To report a tip, call the Miami Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 305-603-6350. Alternatively, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477) or 866-471-8477, visit www.crimestoppersmiami.com and select "Give a Tip" or text "CSMD" followed by the tip information to 274637.