Man Accused in Deadly Miami Scooter Hit-and-Run Arrested, Faces Deportation

Javier Sanjayzar charged with leaving the scene of a crash causing death and driving without a valid license

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:39pm

A 27-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed a pedestrian riding a scooter in Miami's Little Havana neighborhood in late 2025. Authorities say Javier Sanjayzar failed to stop at an intersection, struck the victim, and then fled the scene, only to be later identified through vehicle records. Sanjayzar is now being held on $50,000 bond and also faces an immigration hold as an undocumented immigrant.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run crashes are an ongoing problem in Miami, with many drivers fleeing the scene to avoid responsibility. This case highlights the serious legal consequences that can result, including potential deportation for undocumented immigrants involved in such incidents. It also raises questions about road safety and accountability for drivers in the city's bustling urban neighborhoods.

The details

According to the arrest report, the crash happened on the night of December 30, 2025 at the intersection of Southwest 6th Street and 14th Avenue in Little Havana. Investigators say Sanjayzar failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a pedestrian riding a scooter. The victim was rushed to the hospital with severe injuries and later died eight days later. A day after the crash, a Miami police officer spotted Sanjayzar's damaged vehicle and contacted homicide detectives. Sanjayzar allegedly told the vehicle's owner that he had been in an accident but claimed the pedestrian got up and walked away.

  • The crash occurred on the night of December 30, 2025.
  • The victim died from their injuries eight days later.
  • Sanjayzar was arrested and charged on January 27, 2026.

The players

Javier Sanjayzar

A 27-year-old man who is accused of being the driver involved in the deadly hit-and-run crash. He is being held on $50,000 bond and also faces an immigration hold as an undocumented immigrant.

Judge Mindy Glazer

The judge presiding over Sanjayzar's bond hearing, where she informed him of the charges and the immigration hold.

Kiara Delva

A spokesperson for the City of Miami Police Department, who provided details about the officer's traffic stop that led to Sanjayzar's arrest.

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What they’re saying

“You have an immigration hold, sir.”

— Judge Mindy Glazer, Judge

“At which time he noticed there was damage to the front of the vehicle consistent with the possible crash, the officer immediately contacted our traffic homicide detectives.”

— Kiara Delva, Police Spokesperson

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Javier Sanjayzar to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious legal consequences that can result from hit-and-run crashes in Miami, including potential deportation for undocumented immigrants involved. It underscores the importance of drivers remaining at the scene of an accident and cooperating with authorities to ensure accountability and justice for victims.