MIAMI BEACH, FLA. – Police said a stranger walked up to two men and demanded money, which led things to take a troubling turn as shots were fired. Now, a man is in a coma, and the shooter is on the run.
The incident was cold, deadly and occurred without warning on Thursday of last week on South Beach.
“The victim, in this case, and his friend were sitting on the steps of their apartment building,” said Ernesto Rodriguez, spokesperson for Miami Beach Police, “when a male approached and demanded money and proceeded to shoot the victim in the torso.”
The victims are said to have given the robber a dollar and a wallet, but the suspect still fired his weapon.
“The subject then flees the area,”said Rodriguez. “He runs westbound and then south.”
The shooting has led Miami Beach Police on a hunt for the random armed robber.
Fernando Gallarado, the victim’s father, came from Argentina to be close to his ailing son. He said his son had only been in town for a couple of months from Argentina. He was studying to become an architect.
“He is asking again the public for any assistance,” said Rodriguez. “He recognizes the importance of anyone who may have the slightest detail, the slightest possible tip.”
The 25-year-old victim is currently in a medically induced coma at Jackson Memorial Hospital, and his father and the police are desperate for details.
“He’s fighting for his life,” said Rodriguez. “We sit before you, asking and pleading for the public’s help.”
The suspect, who remains at large is said to be between the ages of 28 and 32 years old.
His stands between 5 feet, 5 inches to 5 feet, 8 inches tall, with a medium build and hunched over.
His hair color is said to be darker brown hair with light tips, short wavy hair with fades on the sides.
Facial details include an unshaven face with a goatee, and a tattoo on the right side of the neck.
If you have any information on this man, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
