LGBT Leader Dies After Being Hit By Vehicle In Keys
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A prominent LGBT leader from Fort Lauderdale died Friday night after he was hit by a car in the Florida Keys.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported Mark Haines, 54, was in the Keys taking part in a bicycle race called SmartRide from Miami to Key West.
"It's a very sad loss," said Tim Barton.
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"I know our community will miss Mark a lot," added Joe Billingsley who knew Haines.
According to a FHP press release, Haines was crossing from the Gulf side of U.S. 1 near mile marker 59 to the ocean side when he walked in front of a truck around 7 p.m.
Another vehicle, an SUV swerved to avoid hitting the truck and also struck Haines. After that impact, a third car that swerved to prevent hitting the SUV hit Haines too, FHP said.
Haines died at the scene.
All three drivers waited for police to arrive.
Haines is known as the founder and leader of Mark's List.
"I would say he was one of the more well-known people in the community because of Mark's List. Hot Spots Magazine. Those are the media outlets for the gay community," Barton added.
Those who knew Haines said he will be remembered for his kind-hearted nature.
"He would always come up and give you a hug and make you smile and you might not be having a good day but when you saw Mark, it was gonna be alright," said Billingsley.
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