Miami authorities are reaching out to the public for assistance in identifying and locating a suspect described as having a "Cuban accent" and estimated to be between 65 and 68 years old. This individual is believed to have committed a violent robbery at a travel agency in Little Havana.
Although the details have just been released, the incident actually occurred in early June. The robbery took place around 10:45 a.m. on June 2 at a business situated at 5925 Southwest 8th Street, a bustling commercial area in the heart of Little Havana.
Robbery Unfolds in Little Havana
According to the police report, the suspect entered the establishment pretending to be a customer, engaging in routine inquiries. The employee, María Landa, never anticipated the terrifying ordeal she was about to face.
"He said, 'This is a real robbery'; and I replied, 'No, don’t tell me that,’” Landa recounted to Univision, recalling the moment the man revealed his true intentions.
Threatened with a Knife
In mere seconds, the suspect brandished a concealed knife and held it to the employee’s neck, demanding she hand over the money in the store.
“After asking, he pulled out a knife, threatened her, and told her to get all the money from the business. She went to the back of the store and handed over what they had, which was only $30 in cash," explained Miami police spokesman Mike Vega to the media outlet.
Upon seeing the small amount, the man became more aggressive, displaying signs of desperation, and continued to threaten the victim with the knife.
Fearing for her life, Landa decided to give him $200 from her purse as well as a bracelet valued at $5,000, according to the report. “At that moment, so many thoughts go through your mind. I told myself: today I die,” María Landa shared emotionally as she recounted the incident.
Security Footage and Public Appeal
The suspect’s face was captured on the store’s security cameras. Authorities describe him as a Hispanic male, between the ages of 65 and 68, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, with a Cuban accent. He was last spotted wearing a white shirt and light blue jeans, leaving the scene heading east on 8th Street.
This incident has caused alarm among local business owners, many of whom have operated in Little Havana for years without experiencing such events. Miami police are urging the public to help identify the thief.
Anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers anonymously. As of now, no further details have been released regarding the case.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Miami Robbery
When did the robbery in Little Havana occur?
The robbery took place around 10:45 a.m. on June 2.
What did the suspect take during the robbery?
The suspect took $30 from the store, $200 from the employee's purse, and a bracelet valued at $5,000.
How can the public assist in identifying the suspect?
The public can help by contacting the Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers anonymously if they recognize the suspect or have information on his whereabouts.