FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - Rescue crews have taken a woman and an 11-year-old child to the hospital after, police said, they came under fire in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale Police and Fire Rescue responded to the scene in the area of Northwest First Street and First Avenue, across from the Broward County Metro Transit Center, just after 6:40 p.m., Saturday.
“We received reports of a shooting,” said Fort Lauderdale Police Assistant Chief Frank Sousa.
Responding officers found the victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
“Officers responded to the scene and immediately encountered two gunshot victims, one of them being an 11-year-old child and an adult female,” said Sousa.
#Ftlauderdalepolice is unfortunately investigating a shooting which has left an innocent adult & child wounded. This incident occurred in the area of NW 1 ST / NW 1 AVE. We’re encouraging the public to bring forward any info. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
— Fort Lauderdale Police (@ftlauderdalepd) August 9, 2020
Paramedics transported the 27-year-old woman and the child to Broward Health Medical Center in unknown condition.
Investigators said some sort of altercation broke out.
A witness who asked not to be identified or show his face on camera said things escalated quickly.
“The guy ran to his car, pulled out a gun and started shooting,” he said.
Police believe the victims were innocent bystanders. They were treated at the scene, then rushed to the hospital.
“She was shot bad in the leg, and she was just crying, crying, crying, leaned over there crying,” said the witness, “and the kid got shot up in here, up in here real bad.”
Hours later, 7News cameras captured an active scene and several bullets scattered on the ground next to evidence markers.
“Investigators are on scene combing surveillance cameras and speaking to witnesses in hopes that someone will be able to provide us with a better picture of what actually occurred here this evening,” said Sousa.
Police cleared the scene at around 11 p.m. They have not provided any details about a possible gunman, as they continue to investigate.
If you have any information on this shooting, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
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