Woman in custody after 2 hit-and-runs on SR 836 in Miami; no injuries

WEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Authorities have taken a woman into custody after, they said, she struck two vehicles along the Dolphin Expressway in Miami and kept going.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the woman was driving eastbound in a blue Honda when she crashed into a white Mercedes-Benz near 42nd Avenue, just after 4:30 p.m., Friday.

Officials said the driver, later identified as 25-year-old Charlotte Rankin-Higgins, did not stop and continued eastbound on the expressway. Shortly after, officials said, she hit a gray Dodge van.

Investigators said an off-duty Miami Beach Police lieutenant was passing by and stopped to help.

As Rankin-Higgins was trying to leave, police said, she went on the attack, going after the female lieutenant.

But officials said the suspect did not get very far before the law enforcer and the driver of the van were able to detain her.

Authorities said Rankin-Higgins initially resisted arrest but they were able to take her into custody.

7SkyForce hovered above the scene capturing lane closures along the eastbound lanes, where traffic was temporarily reduced to one lane. The roadway has since reopened.

Aerial cameras also captured bottles of alcohol on the roof of the two-door Honda and an officer photographing the lieutenant’s right arm.

FHP officials said Rankin-Higgins will be arrested and will face several charges. She might face additional charges from Miami Beach Police.

Police said the lieutenant suffered some scratches but is expected to be OK. No one else was hurt.

Officials said Rankin-Higgins has a Massachusetts driver’s license. Her Honda was later towed away from the scene.

As of 11 p.m., it remains unclear what charges she will face.

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