Hotel Clerk Charged In Hit-And-Run Death of Woman

MIAMI BEACH, FL — A front-desk clerk at the Red Hotel was charged Sunday in the hit-and-run death of a woman following an accident that began with an early morning run for a Red Bull. Angel Cuesta allegedly borrowed a Chevrolet Cruz from the hotel's valet station. He then traveled about eight blocks before striking the unidentified woman as she was making her way across Collins Avenue.

The accident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. at 38 Street and Collins Avenue, according to Ernesto Rodriguez of the Miami Beach Police Department, who said that Cuesta fled the scene without stopping. (Sign up for our free Daily Newsletters and Breaking News Alerts for the Miami Beach Patch.)

"Miami Beach Fire Rescue responded and transported the victim to JMH Ryder where unfortunately she died as a result of her injuries," Rodriguez said on Sunday.

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According to arrest documents, a witness tipped police that Cuesta was an employee of the hotel. Cuesta voluntarily went to the Miami Beach police station for questioning and was placed under arrest.

"The defendant stated that he attempted an evasive maneuver to avoid the crash, however was unable to do so and struck the unknown pedestrian," according to arrest documents. "The defendant was able to see the unknown victim lying on the ground as he drove away."

Cuesta allegedly attempted to hide the 2017 Chevrolet in a gated parking garage at 3535 Indian Creek. He was attempting to drive to a Walgreens on 41 Street to purchase a Red Bull when he struck the victim south of the crosswalk.

Police said that Cuesta never attempted to contact authorities.

Angel Cuesta photo courtesy of Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department