SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - According to Miami-Dade Police, shots were fired at a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) carrier in Southwest Miami-Dade, Thursday.
Police said a call came in to Miami-Dade Police just before noon as “shots fired at a postal worker” near 9305 S.W. 92nd St.
Miami-Dade Police placed yellow caution tape in the surrounding area and set up a perimeter as they investigated what they said was a home burglary. “There was a burglary in progress in this area that the U.S. Postal Inspector happened to run by as he was working,” said Miami-Dade Police Detective Dan Ferrin.
Police said two black men dressed in hoodies jumped over the home’s fence and got into a black SUV and fled.
According to officials, that is when the shots were fired. “He also witnessed the passenger extend half of his body outside of the vehicle, turn around and take a shot at him,” said Ivan Rodriguez of the U.S. Postal Inspector Service. “Apparently, the suspects fleeing believed that the carrier, perhaps, was en route, chasing them or what have you.”
The USPS worker was not injured and is being interviewed by police.
The U.S. Postal Inspector Service said the mail carrier was not chasing the subjects but was simply leaving the neighborhood.
Juan, a fellow mail carrier came to the scene and said there is a danger that comes with the job. “It’s a beautiful neighborhood. We do our job every day, and we don’t know what to expect sometimes,” he said.
Police are reportedly searching for a subject or the subjects responsible. “This is a federal crime. They took a shot at a federal employee,” Rodriguez said. “The employee was an innocent bystander. Thankfully, the employee was not hurt in any way, shape or form.”
Residents of the neighborhood were shocked to hear what happened. “Something like this happens, and it takes you by surprise, and it’s scary,” said resident Maria Martinez.
“I was walking my dogs when he came by the first loop,” said resident Craig Mollicone. “Twenty minutes later, I see the police car.”
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.
The United States Postal Inspector is also offering a reward of up to $20,000 for information leading to an arrest. They can be contacted at 877-876-2455.
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