A confrontation between Miami-Dade deputies and a group of teens ended with a 15-year-old boy injured by a deputy’s gunfire, authorities said.
Incident Overview
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident began at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, following a 911 call about a gun threat at a park near southwest 113th Avenue and 216th Street.
Deputies canvassed the area after issuing a “be on the lookout” alert and encountered several individuals matching the description from the call.
According to Assistant Sheriff Fernand Charles Jr., a confrontation ensued, and one deputy discharged his service weapon, striking the teen.
- The bullet grazed the boy’s ankle
- Deputies recovered a gun with an extended magazine at the scene
Family Questions Official Account
Family members of the teen have expressed doubt about the sheriff’s account, insisting the teens were not armed and did not fire at deputies.
Asia Spann, the teen’s aunt, said, “I don’t know nothing about no firearms… But why did they jump out in unknown cars and start shooting?”
Darryl Collins, another relative, added, “They said he had a pistol, but I don’t believe it… My grandson? He doesn’t get in no problems with nobody.”
Sheriff’s Response
Charles stressed the dangers of minors possessing firearms, noting, “At the end of the day, we need to make sure we’re mindful of what our children are doing day in and day out. It is 3:30 in the afternoon and a 15-year-old is walking around with a firearm, which is not legal or acceptable by any means.”
Investigation
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has been assigned to lead the investigation into the shooting. Authorities have not released additional details about charges or next steps.
The teen’s condition is not reported as life-threatening.