MIAMI, FL – A Miami man is in custody after police say he shoved a woman into the Miami River following an argument, resulting in her death two days later.
William Youmans Jr., 47, was initially arrested on an attempted second-degree murder charge after the altercation Tuesday morning near the SW 1st Street Bridge, not far from Jose Marti Park. Authorities said that charge is expected to be upgraded after the 39-year-old victim, identified as Marie Roseme, died at the hospital on Thursday.
Witnesses told police they saw a heated argument between Youmans and Roseme along the river’s edge that escalated as the two began throwing objects at each other. One bystander, watching from across the river, reported that Roseme sat on the seawall just before Youmans allegedly walked up and pushed her into the water below.
The witness immediately called 911 and kept watch on Youmans until officers arrived, leading to his arrest on the scene.
Emergency responders pulled Roseme from the river and transported her to a local hospital. Initially listed in critical condition, she succumbed to her injuries two days later, law enforcement officials confirmed.
Youmans was taken to the police station after his arrest, where officers say he exhibited violent outbursts, including screaming and punching the walls. According to the arrest affidavit, the suspect also engaged in lewd behavior while in the interview room, prompting officers to end their questioning and transfer him to jail.
Court records indicate Youmans is homeless. The incident took place in a popular park area, and people who frequent the location said they knew Roseme as a familiar face in the neighborhood.
Youmans remains in jail, held on $100,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 15 as investigators continue their probe into what led to the deadly encounter.
Officials have not yet disclosed whether additional charges will be filed, but noted that the investigation remains active following Roseme’s death.