Miami-Dade County Commission Approves “Jimmy Ryce Avenue” Designation to Honor Young Victim and Strengthen Commitment to Child Safety

The Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners has approved a resolution sponsored by Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins to co-designate a portion of Southwest 162nd Avenue, from Southwest 232nd Street to Southwest 240th Street, as “Jimmy Ryce Avenue”, ensuring that the memory of Samuel James “Jimmy” Ryce and the community’s commitment to protecting children will never be forgotten.

Jimmy Ryce, a nine-year-old boy from Homestead, Florida, was tragically abducted, assaulted, and murdered in 1995 while walking home from school. His case shook South Florida and the nation, galvanizing widespread advocacy for stronger protections for children and support for families of missing children.

“This designation ensures that Jimmy’s name, and the urgency of protecting our children, will always remain present in our community,” said Commissioner Cohen Higgins. “Jimmy’s story is heartbreaking, but his legacy has led to meaningful change. By naming this roadway in his honor, we reaffirm our commitment to vigilance, advocacy, and the safety of every child in Miami-Dade County.”

The newly designated “Jimmy Ryce Avenue” is located in Commission District 8 and serves as a lasting tribute to a young life taken too soon, while recognizing the enduring impact of a family’s advocacy and a community’s resolve. Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins thanks her colleagues for their unanimous support of the item.