Miami Beach Community Rallies After Assault Incident
- A woman was assaulted while rollerblading on the Beachwalk in Miami Beach, dragged into the dunes and sexually battered.
- In response to this violent incident, a rally was held to raise awareness and discuss safety measures.
- The event highlights growing concerns about public safety in urban areas.
MIAMI BEACH - In response to a recent sexual assault on a woman rollerblading along the Beachwalk, the Miami Beach skate community organized a "Take Back the Boardwalk" rally on Saturday. The event, held at 24th Street, aimed to unite locals and promote safety in the area. Participants expressed their desire for collective action to prevent future incidents, emphasizing the importance of community support and awareness. Skater Shari Kline highlighted the personal impact of the assault, stating, "That could've been me. That could've been one of my friends." The rally served not only as a response to this specific incident but also as a broader call for vigilance and care among community members. Vik Pagan, another participant, noted the significance of coming together as an athletic community to address safety concerns. The assault occurred on July 16, around 1 a.m., when a man attacked the victim near 23rd Street, dragging her into the dunes before sexually assaulting her. Police have released surveillance images of the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Keithy Hill Jr., who has a prior conviction for sex abuse in Illinois and was listed on the state's sex offender registry. Following the incident, law enforcement has advised the public to avoid being alone at night, inform someone of their whereabouts, and remain vigilant. The community's rally underscores a collective commitment to enhancing safety and support for all individuals in Miami Beach.