NORTH MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - An investigation is currently underway after four people were sent to the hospital following a police-involved shooting in North Miami Beach.
The shooting took place at a Shell gas station near Northeast 163rd Street and Biscayne Boulevard, just before 3 a.m., Thursday.
“This is another stark reminder for the community that our police officers are out here 24 hours a day, seven days a week protecting us, and they are being shot at,” said North Miami Beach Police Chief Richard Rand. “This is the third time within a week where officers have either been killed or shot at.”
Police said a six-year sergeant on patrol heard gunshots in the area.
When he arrived at the gas station, he saw shots coming from a white BMW and a black Charger as they drove northbound along Biscayne Boulevard.
As the officer got closer, someone shot at him, but he was not hit. The officer returned fire.
“The officer attempted to stop one of the vehicles when a person in that vehicle returned fire and shot at the police officer,” said Rand. “The officer did discharge his firearm and fired back. Both vehicles then fled the area. We located the white BMW with four occupants. All four occupants in the white BMW had injuries consistent with a gunshot wound and/or a graze. None of the injuries are life-threatening.”
The four occupants have since been transported to the hospital in unknown condition.
Rand said they found bullet casings for at least 20 blocks.
The intersection reopened to traffic just before 9:30 a.m.
The white BMW has been located by authorities, but the black Charger has not yet been found.
“Thank God tonight I don’t have an injured officer,” said Rand. “I’m very fortunate, and we will catch the people that were involved in this.”
If you have any information on the black Charger’s whereabouts or 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 reward of up to $5,000.
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