Miami Paintball Attacks: Police Focus On Mercedes, Nissan

MIAMI, FL — Police are investigating a series of random attacks around Miami is which the victims have been shot with paintball guns. The motive for the attacks is unclear. But the investigation is focusing on two cars: a gray or silver Mercedes and a white Nissan.

"The Miami Police Department is investigating multiple reported paintball attacks throughout the city of Miami," explained Officer Kiara Delva. "Right now we’re trying to just see if all of the people and the attacks are going to be related, and if they are going to be the same subjects involved."

There have been about half a dozen attacks in Wynwood, Allapattah and in the department's North District, which includes Liberty City, Little Haiti and the Upper Eastside, according to Delva.

"One of the calls that we received was on NW 5 Avenue and 22 Street where a male stated that he had been shot at, and then came to find out that it was from a paintball gun because there was paint splattered everywhere," Delva told Patch.

She added that two of the victims were taken to the hospital by Miami Fire Rescue with non life-threatening injuries.

Police are not sure whether there is more than one shooter.

"Maybe it’s a group of people that are either juveniles or adults I don’t know," Delva explained. "But they possibly are looking at it as a practical joke that’s not really funny. They are not understanding the bigger picture. ... If they shoot at someone, they can run into the street. They can get hit by a car. They can get hit in the eye."

Police described the Mercedes as a newer model four-door vehicle with dark tinted windows. Police did not know the make or model of the Nissan.

To report a tip, call Detective Fortune or any detective of the Miami Police Department Assault Unit at 305-603-6940. Alternatively, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).

Police are looking for a Mercedes similar to the one in this photo. Image courtesy Miami Police Department.