Fort Myers Beach, FL – A Florida father is facing multiple charges, including child neglect and cruelty, after he fled police, crashed his vehicle, and hurled three young children over a nearly six-foot fence in a desperate escape attempt, according to Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputies.
The Chase and Crash
On Saturday, a Lee County Sheriff’s deputy was patrolling near Fort Myers Beach when he saw a black Infiniti with Michigan plates driving recklessly. When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle spun around and sped away. The deputy did not pursue the vehicle further but was flagged down by several drivers who reported the car had crashed into a ditch at the intersection of San Carlos Boulevard and Linda Loma Drive.
Fleeing with Children and Desperate Escape
After crashing, Larry Rada Jr., 26, was seen fleeing the scene with three young children—two of whom were his nephews, and one his own child. Witnesses reported seeing Rada carrying the children through a neighbor’s yard, approaching a locked gate, and then throwing all three children over the nearly six-foot fence.
According to court documents, the children appeared distressed and crying as they were thrown over the fence, and one of the children later vomited profusely. The incident was described as happening “with blatant disregard for the children’s safety.”
The Arrest and Medical Attention
After jumping over the fence himself and falling, Rada disappeared into the backyard, leaving the children behind. Deputies later arrested him at his home. The children were taken to UPMC Children’s Hospital, where doctors reported pain in their heads and abdomens but found no visible injuries. They were set to be released from the hospital on Sunday.
Rada’s Confession and Criminal History
In an interview with deputies, Rada admitted to fleeing after the traffic stop because he was “scared” of law enforcement. He confessed that after crashing into the ditch, he fled, cutting across yards, and throwing the children over the fence.
Court records show Rada has a history of criminal charges, including eight previous arrests for marijuana possession, probation violations, and failure to appear in court. His arrest record dates back to 2017.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Rada faces three counts of cruelty toward a child, three counts of child neglect, hit and run, and fleeing/eluding police. He is currently held at Lee County Jail without bond and has an arraignment hearing scheduled for October 13.
Authorities urge anyone with further information on this case or similar incidents to contact Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Stay informed on local crime news and share your thoughts in the comments below.
