Bicyclist Dies After Being Shot On Rickenbacker Causeway

MIAMI, FL — A bicyclist died after being shot Wednesday morning along the Rickenbacker Causeway, according to the Miami Police Department.

Lt. Freddie Cruz of the Miami Police Department told Patch that the incident involved a motorcyclist and a bicyclist though it was not immediately clear who fired the shot that struck the bicyclist.

More than a dozen bicyclists were enjoying a morning ride when gunfire rang out, according to Cruz.

"I can confirm there was a group of cyclists that were going into the Key shortly after 6 a.m.," said Cruz. "There was a motorcyclist right next to them. There was some sort of an exchange of words, and shortly after, we do know there was a shot fired."

The bicyclist was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition, according to Cruz. He later died.

Cruz said police had not yet determined whether they will file charges against the man who was taken into custody for questioning.

"We're interviewing several people, and like always, we're asking the community to come forward with any and all information," Cruz said.

The scenic highway was shut down for a time during the investigation before Miami police opened one side of the causeway to two-way traffic. Traffic later returned to normal.

Miami police said they were withholding the name of the bicyclist pending notification of the next of kin.

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.

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.