A grieving family in Miami is demanding answers after paramedics left 52-year-old Toshiba Anderson alone on her kitchen floor to respond to another emergency, only for her to die hours later.
The shocking incident has sparked outrage and prompted an internal investigation by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR).
A Desperate Plea for Help
Anderson, a mother and entrepreneur, called 911 two weeks ago due to severe stomach pain. According to her sister, Audrey Ben, paramedics arrived at their home and began treating Anderson. However, everything changed when they received another call.
“They wrapped the sheet around her, around her neck. And then they got a call for a fire up the street. And they left her here, saying they’d be back,” Ben recounted.
Anderson, in distress, pleaded for help. “Why won’t they help me? Why don’t nobody want to help me?” she asked, according to her family.
Paramedics Left—Then Returned Too Late
While Anderson’s loved ones desperately sought assistance, firefighters eventually returned, but not before tensions escalated. According to the family, when they confronted paramedics about leaving Anderson behind, the responders reacted with frustration.
“They were mad because we kept asking them, ‘Why did y’all leave?’” Ben said.
She also claimed a firefighter threw Anderson’s ID on the ground after it was handed to them.
By the time Anderson was transported to Jackson North Medical Center, it was too late. Within two hours, she had passed away.
Lingering Questions
Anderson had undergone gastric bypass surgery six months prior, but her family saw no immediate signs of complications until her recent stomach pain. Now, they are convinced that the firefighters’ decision to leave cost Anderson her life.
“I’ve never heard of a firefighter leaving someone,” Ben said. “This is what we pay you for—to protect us.”
MDFR released a statement confirming that an internal investigation is underway but declined to provide further details.
Anderson’s pink luggage and blue duffel bag from a recent hospital stay remain unpacked even after—a stark reminder of a life cut short.
