Intruder fatally shot in Hialeah armed home invasion; 3 at large

HIALEAH, FLA. (WSVN) - A South Florida homeowner turned the tables on four men who, police said, barged into his home in broad daylight, when he shot and killed one of the intruders, Saturday afternoon.

According to Hialeah Police, the homeowner fought back against the apparent intruders, who intended to rob him at gunpoint, fatally shooting one of them, just before 2 p.m.

Investigators said three other male subjects fled the scene of the armed home invasion, just off West 16th Avenue and 77th Street, in Hialeah.

Three women were inside the residence at the time of the shooting, but no one else was hurt.

Among the law enforcement officials who responded to the scene were half a dozen undercover officers dressed in black from head to toe.

Area residents said the incident left them shaken. “I have a 1-year-old, and it’s pretty scary when you think about bullets flying around the air,” said one neighbor.

“It really took me by surprise,” said area resident Jorge Martinez.

Family member George Garcia told 7News his elderly aunt lives inside the home. While he hasn’t been able to reach her, he did speak with police.

“They tell me that she’s OK. They took her to another relative,” said Garcia.

Area resident Joanna Gonzalez said a home invasion is unheard of in this Hialeah neighborhood. “It’s really quiet, friendly, and it’s just out of the blue, honestly,” she said.

“This neighborhood has been nice, always,” said Garcia. “[My aunt has] been living there for probably more than 20 years.”

Crime scene investigators remained at the home, Saturday night.

“I do have a license to carry, and it’s because of things like this,” said Martinez.

“You never know. It’s not safe anywhere now,” said Gonzalez.

Police said the three other subjects fled in a green car.

If you have any information on their whereabouts, 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.

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