On Thursday morning, two police officers were injured in Miami while responding to reports of gunfire involving a high-caliber rifle. The shooting took place at the intersection of NW 15th Avenue and 26th Street, prompting a massive response from law enforcement and the deployment of a SWAT team after the assailant barricaded himself inside a home.
The authorities are currently engaging in negotiations with the suspect, while also investigating the involvement of another individual who has been taken into custody.
High-Caliber Gunfire Sparks Chaos
The incident began around 7:45 a.m. when multiple calls reported gunshots in the Allapattah neighborhood. Officers from the Miami Police Department arrived at the scene and were immediately met with gunfire. A male and a female officer were shot in the legs, as confirmed by the department, and were subsequently transported to Ryder Trauma Center.
As the wounded officers were being evacuated, the shooter barricaded himself inside a residence and resumed firing minutes later. This escalation led authorities to intensify their response, deploying negotiators and specialized tactical teams.
"As you can imagine, we have a tremendous scene here," stated Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales, emphasizing the severity of the situation. "We are working to find a peaceful resolution at this time," he added.
Initial Confusion and an Unclear Detention
The early hours of the incident were characterized by confusion. One individual was detained near the area, but authorities have not yet confirmed if this person is the shooter. "This person is connected to the scene in some way. We are still determining the exact nature of their involvement, but they are currently with our investigators," Morales explained.
At 8:58 a.m., reporters on the scene heard additional gunfire, indicating that the threat remained and negotiations had yet to yield a resolution.
Suspect Known to Law Enforcement
By mid-morning, Chief Morales disclosed that authorities know the suspect's identity, though they have refrained from releasing this information. "We know who he is, but we're not ready to disclose that information yet," he noted. "We have had previous contact with him," he added, without providing further details.
Morales assured that the primary objective remains preventing further violence: "We will take the necessary time and always act under the principle of preserving the sanctity of life to the highest degree."
Security Perimeter and Ongoing Operation
The affected area has been completely cordoned off. Helicopters are flying overhead, patrols have closed access points, and residents have been urged to stay indoors. Tactical teams have surrounded the house where the suspect is believed to be barricaded.
The incident is still unfolding, and authorities have called for calm among local residents. The injured officers are in stable condition, but the operation will continue until the situation is fully resolved.
Key Details on the Miami Shooting Incident
What triggered the police response in Miami?
The response was triggered by multiple reports of gunshots involving a high-caliber rifle in the Allapattah neighborhood.
What is the condition of the injured officers?
Both officers who were shot are in stable condition after being transported to Ryder Trauma Center.
Is the suspect known to the police?
Yes, the suspect is known to law enforcement, although his identity has not been released to the public.