Key Biscayne resident Carlos Mendia’s brother-in-law sustained critical injuries in last Saturday’s bicycle-vehicle accident near the toll plaza entering the Rickenbacker Causeway and Miami Police officials are still investigating.
In the meantime, Mendia issued a public statement Friday afternoon on behalf of Dr. Gilbert Beauperthuy’s family in Coral Gables, following up on a brief interview with Islander News earlier in the week.
The family’s statement, issued Friday afternoon, is below.
“On the morning of August 29, 2026, prominent South Florida physician, Dr. Gilbert Beauperthuy, was struck from behind while riding his bicycle in the designated green bike path on the Rickenbacker Causeway. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle that struck Dr. Beauperthuy was driving erratically and crossed into the bike path at the time of the collision.
“Dr. Beauperthuy suffered life-threatening injuries and is in critical condition. Despite the severity of his injuries, his family remains hopeful and focused on Gilbert’s recovery.
“As an orthopedic surgeon at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital, Dr. Beauperthuy spent his career caring for others during some of their most difficult moments. Today, that same compassion, skill, and support is being returned by the doctors, nurses, and medical providers caring for him.
“The family is grateful for the prayers and outpouring of love and support from all of you. Future updates and information will be released as Dr. Beauperthuy’s condition develops. The family respectfully requests privacy and patience during this extraordinarily difficult time and asks that the community continue to keep Gilbert in their prayers.”