4 Hospitalized Following Turnpike Crash

MIAMI, FL — Four people were taken to the hospital Thursday, including one who had to be extricated from a mangled vehicle following a crash along the Florida Turnpike. The incident happened around 8:30 a.m. just north of the NW 41st St.

Erika Benitez of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said a car was partially submerged in a canal adjacent to the southbound lanes of the Florida Turnpike.

"When crews arrived, there were several Good Samaritans trying to rescue the patients that were still inside the vehicle," Benitez explained. "The arriving units quickly doffed their dive gear and started working on extricating one patient who was still trapped in the mangled vehicle."

Benitez said that first responders used hydraulic tools to cut into the vehicle.

"A total of 4 patients were transported to the hospital, two which were trauma alerts," according to Benitez. "Miami-Dade Fire Rescue reminds everyone to always wear your seat-belts and remain alert while driving as accidents can occur in a matter of seconds."

Photo courtesy Miami-Dade Fire Rescue