Surveillance footage has surfaced, capturing the precise moment when a confrontation between two young men escalated into a tragic incident in Doral, Florida. The video, recorded from a distance, shows Jorge Zubigaray, a 24-year-old Cuban, delivering a violent blow to the face of his friend, Carlos Mena, also 24. Mena collapses to the ground, unable to defend himself. Zubigaray, wearing a dark-colored shirt, is then seen leaning forward before fleeing the scene.
According to the police report, without offering any assistance to Mena, Zubigaray took his shoes and made a getaway in a black Porsche Macan. This incident unfolded in the parking lot of Twin Peaks restaurant, located at 8700 NW 18 Terrace, around 7:00 PM on Thursday, March 27.
The footage has sparked outrage, not only for its violent nature but because the conflict was reportedly over a mere pair of sneakers. Doral police disclosed that the quarrel between the friends had persisted throughout the day, centered around a pair of shoes. The argument intensified, culminating in a public ambush.
The arrest affidavit outlines that Zubigaray confronted Mena as he exited the restaurant, delivering a punch that caused Mena to fall backward and strike his head on the pavement. Numerous witnesses, shocked by the event, rushed to aid the victim and contacted emergency services.
One witness recounted seeing Mena sending tense text messages prior to the attack and hearing the sickening thud as his skull hit the ground.
Critical Condition and Legal Consequences
Carlos Mena was urgently transported to the HCA Kendall Hospital, where he underwent brain surgery due to internal bleeding caused by the assault. He remains in critical condition, intubated and under constant observation.
"This was a dispute between two young men, both 24 years old, and it will affect them for the rest of their lives: one is facing serious felony charges, and the other is gravely injured in the hospital," stated Edwin López, Doral Police Chief, in an interview with Univision. López emphasized the importance of finding non-violent solutions, stating, "There are many ways to solve problems. This should never have happened."
Zubigaray Under House Arrest as Investigation Proceeds
A day after the incident, Jorge Zubigaray voluntarily surrendered to authorities. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. During his court appearance, he was placed under house arrest with bail, as the legal proceedings continue.
Zubigaray is currently facing charges of attempted murder and robbery. However, should Carlos Mena's condition deteriorate or result in death, prosecutors may escalate the charges to homicide. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue teams responded to the scene, finding Mena with a brain hemorrhage. He was rushed to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital for emergency surgery.
Witnesses described Zubigaray as impulsive and confirmed that his mother shared a friendship with the victim's mother. The arraignment is scheduled for April 28 at 9:00 AM, presided over by Judge Carlos H. Gamez of the Miami-Dade judicial circuit.
The police urge anyone with information regarding the case to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Doral Altercation
What led to the altercation in Doral, Florida?
The altercation was reportedly sparked by a dispute over a pair of sneakers.
What charges is Jorge Zubigaray facing?
Jorge Zubigaray is facing charges of attempted murder and robbery. The charges could be elevated to homicide if Carlos Mena's condition worsens or if he passes away.
How is Carlos Mena's condition after the incident?
Carlos Mena remains in critical condition, intubated and under constant monitoring after undergoing brain surgery for internal bleeding.