5 hospitalized following drive-by shooting in Liberty City

MIAMI (WSVN) - Four women and one man were taken to the hospital after, police said, they were shot outside a Liberty City store, Monday evening.

Tuesday, City of Miami Police were still looking for the shooter or shooters, who remain on the run.

Police and fire rescue units responded to the scene of the reported shooting in the area of Northwest 15th Avenue and 70th Street, in the Miami neighborhood, just after 6:30 p.m.

Officials said the victims were standing outside of a corner market when someone inside a lighter colored Nissan Altima opened fire on them, firing 15 rounds. “About 15 rounds, possibly, were shot at the time, and just very fortunate right now that there’s no fatalities,” said Miami Police Officer Rene Pimentel.

Rudy Brown said he was grazed by one of the bullets. “Just a little flesh wound,” he said. “They didn’t come out, they just kept shooting. They just drove by and started shooting.”

Tonya Nelms said her 26-year-old cousin, Angel Nelms, was hit in the back and the hand. “I’m on my way to the hospital,” she said. “When I just called her phone, I hear everybody yelling and screaming and crying.”

The victims were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.

Monday night, family members formed a prayer circle outside the Ryder Trauma Center to fight fear and sadness with faith. “It’s where our kids no longer have the privilege of enjoying outside and playing because they have to always be aware of bullets and stray bullets that are coming, intended for somebody else,” said Vernon Gillum the pastor at New Life Tabernacle of Praise Church.

Tuesday morning, Rodolfo Llanes, the Chief of Miami Police, said people had come forward overnight with more information about the case. “There has been some information that has come forward, and I appreciate that,” he said.

“I think if we’re working together we can make a difference in solving this violence issue,” – Miami Police Chief Llanes

Pastor Vernon Gillum of New Life Tabernacle of Praise expressed his concerns for the children who are growing up in neighborhoods that are becoming increasingly more violent. “Our kids no longer have the privilege of enjoying outside and playing,” he said, “because they always have to be aware of bullets and stray bullets that were intended for someone else.”

Officials said the passenger was the one who was likely behind the gun.

If you have any information on this shooting, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $1,000 reward.

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