Two individuals were injured by stray bullets amidst the Independence Day celebrations in South Florida on July 4th. The incidents, which involved a woman and a teenager, occurred during fireworks displays in Northwest Miami and Homestead, as reported by Telemundo 51.
A 13-year-old teenager was struck by a stray bullet around 11:18 p.m. in an area of Northwest Miami, near the 1400 block on NW 72 Street. The youngster was taken to the hospital in stable condition, according to the Miami-Dade Police Department.
In another incident, a woman was admitted to Homestead Hospital at approximately 10:00 p.m. with a gunshot wound to her shoulder. She was hit by the projectile while watching fireworks in the area of NW 9 Avenue and NW 4 Street. Preliminary investigations indicate she was injured by a stray bullet. As of now, there is no information available about the shooter, the news outlet reported.
Due to the severity of her injuries, the victim was airlifted to Jackson South Hospital and remains in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
The Homestead Police Department has urged the public to adhere to safety guidelines during celebrations involving fireworks or other activities with gunfire. "Remember that celebratory gunfire is illegal and dangerous. Bullets fired into the air can return to the ground at high speeds and pose a serious risk to public safety," the police reminded.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Homestead Police Department at 305-247-1535.
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), bullets fired into the air can ascend up to two miles before descending at a rate of between 300 and 700 feet per second, a speed sufficient to kill someone. The worst part is that it is impossible to predict where they will land.
Stray Bullet Incidents During July 4th Celebrations
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the incidents involving stray bullets during the July 4th celebrations in Miami.
What happened during the July 4th celebrations in Miami?
Two individuals were injured by stray bullets in separate incidents during fireworks displays in Northwest Miami and Homestead.
Who were the victims of these incidents?
The victims were a 13-year-old teenager and a woman who sustained a gunshot wound to her shoulder.
What did the police say about celebratory gunfire?
The Homestead Police Department reminded the public that celebratory gunfire is illegal and dangerous, emphasizing that bullets fired into the air can return to the ground at high speeds, posing a serious risk to public safety.