MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Police are searching for the man who, they said, is responsible for a shooting near a busy South Beach intersection that left a woman dead.
Meanwhile, the victim’s devastated loved ones are hoping the suspect will be brought to justice.
Miami Beach Police detectives described 33-year-old Keith Brown as “a very dangerous man.”
Wednesday afternoon, investigators shared a previous booking photo of the suspect.
Police said Brown is directly connected to the murder investigation into the incident that took place near the corner of 10th Street and Collins Avenue, just after 2 a.m., Sunday.
“Our investigators believe he is directly involved with the shooting. We believe he is responsible for the shooting,” said Miami Beach Police Officer Ernesto Rodriguez. “What exactly is the connection? We believe there is some sort of connection. We don’t believe this is a random incident.”
Officials said a man opened fire at the victim during an altercation, striking her several times, and fled on foot.
Surveillance video captured a man running away from the scene of the shooting moments after.
The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. She was later identified as 32-year-old Latoya Michelle Wiggins.
Speaking to 7News on the phone from North Carolina, Wiggins’ mother and aunt opened up about the family tragedy.
“I just started screaming because, I mean, that’s my only daughter,” said Tonya Wiggins, the victim’s mother.
“Nobody has a right to have their lives taken at the hands of someone who can’t accept no,” said Tosha Wiggins, the victim’s aunt.
Loved ones said Wiggins and Brown had been dating for four or five months, and this all stems from a domestic violence incident. Detectives have not confirmed the relationship.
Wiggins’ mother said the victim leaves behind a young daughter.
Police said they do not know why Wiggins was targeted. They said she was a cooperative witness in an open but separate human trafficking case, and that’s why they have the homicide bureau working closely with human trafficking investigators.
Investigators said Brown has an extensive criminal past, including prostitution-related charges.
“We need to interview him. We need to get his side of the story,” said Rodriguez. “The main thing here is, this is a very dangerous man that needs to be taken off the streets.”
“I hope they give him life, and he can never get out because he didn’t have to take my daughter’s life,” said Tonya Wiggins.
Wiggins would have turned 33 on Oct. 19.
“We lost someone who was very, very, very dear to our hearts,” said her aunt. “She was a part of our family. She meant a lot to all of us.”
Detectives have since recovered the gun that was used in the shooting.
If you have any information on this shooting or Brown’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
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