Hate Crime Suspected in Miami Beach Attack

MIAMI BEACH, FL — A 45-year-old man told police he was called gay slurs and beaten unconscious as he walked his dog during the evening rush hour on Friday night. Kevin Wilcox suffered internal injuries, a concussion and broken ribs in the daylight attack. His two attackers could be charged with a hate crime.

"The victim stated the crime took place Friday evening. He sought treatment Saturday and reported the crime to police Sunday morning," Ernesto Rodriguez of the Miami Beach Police Department told Patch on Sunday night. "As with any investigation, the crime itself is investigated. Upon arrest, the complete findings are presented to the State Attorney's Office who then determines if they will prosecute as a hate crime."

Wilcox told police he was unconscious for about three hours on Friday following the 5 p.m. attack. He said the attack occurred at 14 Street and Meridian Avenue near Flamingo Park.

Wilcox told police that he was walking his dog on the west side of 14 Street when the two men called him a gay slur as they crossed paths. Wilcox kept walking when one of the men grabbed him from behind and the other punched him repeatedly in the face and body.

As they beat him, one of the suspects used another gay slur and said that all homosexuals should die "and we're going to make sure they do."

Both of the suspects are described as African-American men. One was about 6 feet 1 inch to 6 feet 2 inches tall and about 200 pounds with braids in his hair, brown eyes and black hair. The second suspect was 5 feet 9 inches tall, about 160 pounds with a shaved head with brown eyes and black hair. Both suspects were wearing jeans and T-shirts.

"Mr. Wilcox advised that he soon passed out," according to a police report. "Mr. Wilcox stated that he regain consciousness three hours later. Mr. Wilcox stated that he then went home and went sleep. Mr. Wilcox stated that the next morning he went to Mr. Sinai Hospital on his own."

To report a tip, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477) or 866-471-8477, visit crimestoppersmiami.com and select "Give a Tip" or text "CSMD" followed by the tip to 274637.

Have you been the victim to or have witnessed a bias act? Tell your story here.