Deborah Murphy, an 82-year-old woman, died after being struck by an SUV in a Florida grocery store parking lot on May 17. The incident occurred outside a Publix in Panama City Beach while she was walking back to her car. Court records state a Toyota 4Runner struck Murphy and continued backing over her, resulting in her death.
Carlos Suarez-Contreras, 26, is identified as the driver. He faces charges of driving with a canceled license and causing a death, classified as a third-degree felony. His Georgia license was invalid according to arrest records. Legal documents confirm both Suarez-Contreras and a passenger, Luis Sanabria, are illegally in the U.S. They confessed to being born in Venezuela and were subsequently issued ICE detainers and held at the Bay County Jail.
Sanabria provided testimony confirming Suarez-Contreras was driving the vehicle during the crash. Despite being in the country with an expired visa, Sanabria was released to ICE custody.
Suarez-Contreras is held without bail due to his immigration status and potential flight risk. Florida Highway Patrol records highlighted this concern.
The incident moved Murphy to a hospital, where she later died from her injuries. Her daughters described her as a vibrant individual who impacted many lives through her roles as a friend, teacher, mother, and grandmother.
In 2024, 16% of fatal traffic incidents involved drivers with invalid licenses according to NHTSA. That year witnessed 7,080 pedestrian fatalities in the U.S., with over 71,000 injuries.
Florida reported 10,501 pedestrian-related crashes in 2024, leading to 678 deaths. One common cause mentioned by NHTSA for these crashes is drivers’ failure to check behind them before reversing in parking lots.
Suarez-Contreras’ attorney from Musca Law expressed that his client did not commit a criminal act. The defense views the situation as unfortunate but not criminally intended.
A grandchild of Murphy shared collected reflections from Murphy’s writings, showcasing her views on life and legacy. She valued leaving the world with individuals who would make significant contributions.
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