Two Runners In Critical Condition After Being Struck By A Vehicle During Keys 100 Race

Two participants in the Keys 100 ultramarathon were hospitalized with serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle during the race. The accident has left their families demanding answers.

The incident occurred during the Keys 100, a 100-mile race in Florida stretching from Key Largo to Key West that began on May 18, 2024. 

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 23-year-old woman driving a Chrysler Pacifica fell asleep at the wheel, veered out of her lane, and hit the runners. Authorities have ruled out alcohol as a factor in the crash.

One of the injured runners, Matt D., a marathoner and surgeon, had part of his right arm amputated as a result of the collision. His wife, Sara, expressed their devastation, noting that he was participating in an official race with safety measures in place.

“They were part of an official race, all I know is they weren’t on their own, they were part of an organized event and I don’t comprehend the details,” she said to NBC6.

The second runner, Gabriel, is a University of Miami professor and avid athlete. He is expected to suffer permanent loss of function in his right arm.

Bob Becker, the race director, described the incident as an “unfortunate accident.” He explained that while the race includes various safety measures such as sheriff’s deputies, cones, and signage, the specific area where the accident occurred lacked such precautions. 

Becker emphasized that while certain sections like the Seven Mile Bridge are coned off, not the entire course is. “Seven Mile Bridge is coned, not the entire course. It never has been and there has been no comment ever to that effect,” Becker said.

The families of both runners hope that sharing their stories will lead to improved safety measures and prevent similar incidents in the future.