MIAMI SPRINGS, FLA. (WSVN) - Police are searching for anyone involved in a fatal shooting outside a Miami Springs IHOP.
The shooting took place sometime before 4 a.m., in the parking lot of an IHOP, located along Northwest 36th Street and 51st Avenue.
7Skyforce flew over the scene where multiple evidence markers could be seen on the ground.
The 25-year-old male victim, who has not yet been identified by police, was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
According to Miami-Dade Police, the victim and his female friend were the only two customers inside the IHOP at the time. When the friend went to the restroom, that’s when the employees inside said they heard gunfire.
“Apparently, from what it seems, the victim stepped out to his vehicle when he was confronted by an unknown subject or subjects,” said MDP Detective Alvaro Zabaleta. “It’s unknown at this point because all the employees heard were gunshots. Once they ran outside, including the female friend, they discovered shots.”
Northwest 36th Street was blocked off westbound between South Drive and East Drive. However, the street has since reopened.
The IHOP has reopened for business, as well.
Diners later in the day were shocked to hear a shooting had taken place earlier this morning.
“It’s scary, it’s scary,” said one customer.
Upon hearing of the shooting, tourists staying at the next-door Holiday Inn Express voiced their shock at the crime that happened so close.
“Maybe I was dead asleep. I didn’t hear anything,” said Karl, who is visiting from Houston.
“It’s very sad and tragic that this occurs,” said Zabaleta, “and it’s also very sad that this occurs next to a hotel. This isn’t the image we want tourists to see when they visit Miami-Dade County.”
If you have any information on this fatal shooting, 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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