Family identifies the child as 12-year-old Carl Robinson IV and says his organs will be donated.
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — A 12-year-old boy struck by a driver while walking home from school last Friday on Northwest 37th Avenue at Northwest 194th Street died Tuesday, two days before Christmas, his family said. Paramedics airlifted him to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead four days after the collision.
The boy was identified by relatives as Carl Robinson IV, a sixth grader at Carol City Middle School. The crash, which happened shortly after 4 p.m., is under investigation. Family members said the driver was turning at the intersection when the collision occurred. Authorities have not announced arrests or cited the motorist as of Saturday. The death has jolted a community already heading into the holidays, shifting family plans to funeral arrangements and highlighting lingering questions about what exactly unfolded in the seconds before impact.
Relatives said Robinson was walking home when a driver turning through the intersection struck him. “She didn’t see him, and he didn’t see her,” his mother, Kenyatta Trigo, said in an interview. Robinson was treated at the scene and flown to the Hollywood pediatric trauma center, where doctors worked to stabilize him. Trigo said physicians later determined there was no brain activity. He died on Dec. 23. “I was planning Christmas, buying gifts, and then I got the call,” Trigo said. “It’s so hard to wake up without him.” The family said they had prepared holiday activities before the crash and were gathering for the break when the phone rang.
Records and statements provided by relatives indicate Robinson suffered extensive trauma on the left side of his body along with catastrophic brain injuries. The boy’s stepmother and mother told reporters the driver was attempting a turn at the time and that both the motorist and Robinson were unable to avoid each other. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed a child was airlifted from the area around 4 p.m. that afternoon. Officials have not publicly released a crash report detailing the speed, right-of-way, or whether any citation was issued. Investigators have not disclosed the driver’s name. The hospital did not release patient information, citing privacy rules.
Family members said Robinson was a respectful student who loved pizza and video games and attended Carol City Middle School. They said his heart and other organs would be donated in the coming days in hopes of helping other children. “His heart is beating strong,” Trigo said, adding that she hopes to meet the recipient one day. Neighbors near the intersection said traffic can be heavy during dismissal times and that drivers often queue to turn onto Northwest 37th Avenue. The city has not announced changes to the intersection since the crash, and it remains unclear whether school staff or crossing guards were present at the time.
The crash followed a separate incident in Miami Gardens on Dec. 19 in which a child was airlifted after being hit by a driver near the same corridor, according to fire rescue dispatches that day. Authorities have not said whether the incidents are related. Police typically review witness statements, nearby cameras, and any available vehicle data before deciding whether to recommend charges. If charges are filed, prosecutors would determine counts and court dates. As of Dec. 27, investigators had not publicly outlined fault or said whether impairment or speed played a role.
Through the week, relatives gathered to plan a service and manage expenses, including burial costs. A crowdfunding page set up in Robinson’s name drew condolences from classmates and teachers. Outside the family home, neighbors placed flowers and small stuffed animals. “We’re trying to hold each other up,” said an aunt who asked not to be named. “He was excited for the break and to see cousins. Now we’re planning a funeral.” On Friday evening, friends lit candles at the edge of the block and bowed their heads as traffic moved past.
As of Saturday, police had not released an investigative timeline or said when they expect to complete the crash review. The family said they hope to share funeral details after the medical examiner finalizes paperwork. A preliminary report is expected to be forwarded to prosecutors once officers finish collecting statements and camera footage. The school district said counselors have been made available to students and staff who knew Robinson. A memorial service is being planned for next week, pending final arrangements.
Author note: Last updated December 27, 2025.