Miami Police have arrested the suspect accused of murdering an elderly man in front of his 11-year-old granddaughter during a botched robbery at an apartment in Little Havana.
The detainee has been identified as Carlos Manuel Rosales, 38, who is married to a sister of the girl’s mother. The girl was alone in the house when her uncle-by-marriage broke in to steal.
The incident occurred on Thursday around 8:30 am in the 700 block of Southwest Fifth Street. The arrest report details that Rosales, who lives near the residence, completely covered his face before entering the apartment. The girl heard him and called her mother, who then alerted the girl’s grandfather, who rushed to help.
"The mother calls the grandfather because he lives just a few houses away, and he comes running to assist her. When he enters the apartment, he finds that the suspect is still inside," explained Mike Vega, spokesperson for the Miami Police, to Telemundo 51.
The suspect shot the man in the stomach and then fled, getting into a white Toyota Tundra and driving away. Thanks to surveillance cameras in the area, he was identified and captured that same afternoon.
After being shot, the man, identified as Luciano Matute, 62, collapsed down the stairs. He was helped by neighbors and transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he died shortly after.
Subsequently, police discovered that Rosales had also sexually abused two girls. In addition to second-degree murder charges, he now faces charges of lewd sexual abuse of minors and lewd exhibition to minors.
Rosales is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with no bond set as of yet.
The Miami Police spokesperson reiterated the advice they always give to people in such situations. "It's fine to call mom, dad, a friend, or a neighbor, but before you do that, call 911. Let us be the ones to risk our lives to save yours," he advised.
Details Surrounding the Little Havana Incident
This section provides answers to some common questions regarding the tragic incident in Little Havana.
Who is Carlos Manuel Rosales?
Carlos Manuel Rosales, 38, is the suspect arrested for the murder and other criminal charges. He is married to the sister of the victim's granddaughter's mother.
What happened to Luciano Matute?
Luciano Matute, 62, was shot in the stomach by the suspect during a robbery. He was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital but unfortunately died shortly after.
Where is the suspect being held?
Carlos Manuel Rosales is currently held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with no bond set.