NORTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - A Coral Gables Fire lieutenant is recovering in the hospital one day after, police said, he was struck by a stray bullet near Northwest Miami-Dade.
According to Miami-Dade Police, Coral Gables Fire Lt. Xavier Jones was shot in both legs, Sunday night, at around 10:21 p.m., near Northwest 30th Avenue and 51st Street. Jones was a passenger inside of a vehicle when shots rang out.
Neighbors said their street was filled with police vehicles. “So I got in the house, my daughter say she heard a lot of shots,” said resident Kenny Hayes. “So all of them was laying inside the house.”
Jones was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital and is in stable condition as of Monday, officials said. The Coral Gables Fire Department said that Jones’ injuries were not life-threatening.
On Facebook, Jones shared the photo showing entry and exit wounds on his right thigh.
His post reads, “Last night I got shot in both legs by a stray bullet. I had to be transported to Ryder Trauma Center. By God’s grace I am doing a lot better. Thanks, everyone, for your prayers and concerns.”
Jones is also a pastor. He has been with the Coral Gables Fire Department for about 10 years, and in September 2015, Jones was named Firefighter of the Month.
The department released a statement following the shooting. It reads in part, “We would like to thank Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Ryder Trauma Center for their actions in assisting our fellow firefighter … All of us at the Coral Gables Fire Department wish Lt. Jones a speedy recovery.”
Fellow firefighters who visited Jones at the hospital, Monday afternoon, said he is in good spirits and is expected to be released soon. They posed for pictures with the recovering firefighter.
Monday night, new photographs posted to social media showed Jones smiling and on his feet. One of the posts read, “Our brother Lt. Jones is up and walking! Tough as nails. Thanks for your prayers. God bless.”
So far, no arrests have been made.
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.
Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.