33-Year-Old With Criminal Past Killed In South Beach Shooting

MIAMI BEACH, FL -- A gunman opened fire on a 33-year-old man with history of criminal arrests Saturday night in South Beach. The victim died a short time later at Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center, according to Ernesto Rodriguez of the Miami Beach Police Department.

Rodriguez said the incident occurred at 14 Street and Collins Avenue around 11:41 p.m. Miami Beach police did not immediately release the name of the victim pending notification of the next of kin.

“He was well known to officers who patrol the Entertainment District/Ocean Drive area,” said Rodriguez. “He had a history of arrests for numerous petty offenses as well as aggravated battery, narcotics sales and possession, and armed robbery.”

Rodriguez said the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The incident occurred near one of the most popular areas for tourists, particularly on a Saturday night during a three-day holiday weekend.

Miami Beach Fire took the victim to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center where he died shortly after arriving.

Rodriguez said on Sunday that the shooting was not random.

“We know that the deceased and the person who fired the shots were involved in a confrontation prior to the shooting,” Rodriguez explained. “It may well be that there is an explanation for the shooting. We would like the person involved to contact our detectives and provide his explanation of these events.”

Miami Beach police said traffic was disrupted in the area on Sunday morning around the crime scene.

To report a tip, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305.471.TIPS.

Photo by Paul Scicchitano