Settlement reached in woman’s death in crash with off-duty deputy
A settlement has been reached in the death of a young woman killed in a crash involving an off-duty Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputy in 2023.
According to a release from Aaron Davis of Davis Goldman PLLC of Miami and James Pullos of Clifford Law Offices of Chicago, the two firms obtained a $500,000 settlement for the family of Mackenzie Ryan, 23, who died May 9, 2023.
Miguel Angel Huapilla, who was driving an unmarked patrol car while off-duty, collided with Ryan’s car at Miromar Outlet Drive and County Road 885 on Ben Hill Griffin Parkway.
“The family is devastated by the unnecessary and avoidable death of their young daughter,” Davis said in a release. “Although no amount of money can bring back their loved one, this settlement sends a clear message of accountability, and that this type of driving will not be tolerated no matter who you are.”
The settlement, which was reached earlier this month against the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, was $200,000 over the statutory cap on damages in the state. The settlement was obtained on behalf of Mackenzie’s parents, Trent and Jennifer Ryan.
According to court records, the incident took place shortly after 10:30 p.m. on May 9.
Court records state Huapilla turned onto Ben Hill Griffin Parkway towards the intersection at Miramar Outlet Drive on a green light, and that Ryan entered the intersection while the traffic signal that controlled her lane of travel was red.
Court records state Huapilla was traveling approximately between 73 and 80 mph in a 45 mph zone. His vehicle struck the passenger’s side door of Ryan’s vehicle in the intersection.
Court records state Ryan had a blood alcohol content of .131 at the time of the crash.
Huapilla was cited in the crash for speed/fail to use due care. He contested the charge and was acquitted/not guilty in a non-jury trial by Josephine M. Gagliardi, judge/hearing officer.
A separate court said Huapilla could not be sued as an individual because his actions “do not justify a civil suit against him individually as a matter of law.”
According to court records, he is now employed by the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office declined comment.
“We generally do not comment on active litigation,” the agency’s communications office said.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com