MIAMI, US — Two Thai nationals were killed in a hit-and-run crash in Miami Beach during a spring break trip, authorities in the United States said.
Sarisa “Pear” Kongduang, 22, a third-year student in Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, and Greatgomon “Great” Laowatdhanasapya, 23, a 2024 graduate of the university, were struck by a car while crossing Collins Avenue at 73rd Street at about 21:05 on 18 March. Both were taken to hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Police said the driver, identified as Adan Negron-Morris, 42, was speeding and driving without headlights at the time of the crash. Authorities added that several emergency calls had been made shortly before the incident, reporting a vehicle being driven erratically in the area.
After the collision, the suspect reportedly fled the scene but was later found at a nearby shop, where he was detained before officers arrived. He has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide and two counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
According to police, the suspect told officers he had intended to harm himself by closing his eyes and accelerating. Authorities are also investigating whether he was under the influence of drugs, with toxicology results pending.
A court in Miami-Dade later set bail at $1 million, with the judge describing the suspect as a danger to the community. If released, he would be placed under strict house arrest and banned from driving or consuming alcohol.
Kongduang was known for her involvement in Association of Thai Students in the United States, including leadership roles during her studies. Laowatdhanasapya had recently graduated and was working in the Bank of America as an Investment Banking Analyst
The case remains under investigation.
