A tragic incident unfolded in Hialeah, Florida, as 33-year-old Cuban national Yoendris Campos was fatally shot at an apartment complex on Tuesday afternoon. Local authorities have confirmed the apprehension of the alleged shooter at the scene.
The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. at a building located on the 710 block of East 9th Street, close to the intersection with 7th Avenue. Campos, who was visiting a friend's apartment, was confronted by a neighbor who initially knocked on the door and later returned with a weapon, firing a fatal shot.
According to the Hialeah Police Department, the suspect has been identified as Pedro Blanco, a 55-year-old man charged with first-degree murder. Police spokesperson José Torres informed Local 10 News that "Blanco approached the apartment where Campos was, knocked on the door, and when there was no response, returned to his own apartment. At that moment, Campos opened the door to see who had knocked, and Blanco came back and fired a single shot, resulting in Campos' death."
Campos was pronounced dead at the scene. His cousin, Braulio, shared with Telemundo 51 that "he only came to visit, they were going to fix a car, that's all. Someone knocked on the door, and when he opened it, that man shot him. Nobody knew him… that guy is crazy or something, but to me, it wasn't insanity. That man has to pay for what he did."
Braulio also noted that Yoendris was "the head of the family" and left behind a young daughter living in Cuba. Speaking with CBS News Miami, he added, "He was everything to me. He was my cousin, but he taught me everything."
Having emigrated from Vedado, Havana, Campos had been residing in the United States for the past seven years, as reported by local media.
Residents of the building reported hearing a single gunshot and expressed their fear due to the police presence that followed. One resident told CBS News Miami, "I saw a lot of police officers running and going upstairs to the apartment. I didn't dare go out. It gave me chills. Thankfully, my son was home."
The police have described the event as isolated, assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety. "This is an isolated incident stemming from what appears to be a neighbor dispute. There is no public safety risk at this time," clarified Officer José Torres.
The investigation remains active, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
Community Safety and Incident Details
Who was the victim in the Hialeah shooting?
The victim was Yoendris Campos, a 33-year-old Cuban who had been living in the United States for seven years.
What charges does the suspect face?
Pedro Blanco, the suspect, faces charges of first-degree murder.
How have local residents reacted to the incident?
Residents reported fear and shock due to the police activity following the shooting and expressed concerns about community safety.