Miami, FL – In a tragic turn of events, a South Florida man lost his life while protecting his granddaughter from a burglar who broke into her home in Little Havana.

Grandfather’s Sacrifice

City of Miami Police responded to a call on Thursday morning at approximately 8:30 a.m. regarding a shooting at an apartment located at 753 SW 5th St. Upon arrival, they found a man, approximately 60 years old, who had been shot.

According to authorities, the victim’s granddaughter was alone in the apartment when she heard the intruder enter. Alarmed, she contacted her mother, who then reached out to the girl’s grandfather, who lived nearby.

Confrontation with the Intruder

The grandfather rushed to the scene and confronted the intruder, leading to a physical altercation. During the confrontation, the suspect shot the grandfather before fleeing the scene.

Officer Michael Vega of the Miami Police described the sequence of events, stating, He runs over, goes into the apartment, meets eye to eye with the offender. They get into a scuffle, and the offender shoots at Grandpa one time.

Tragic Outcome

Despite being rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital in serious condition, the grandfather succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a devastated family.

Community Response

Witnesses in the area reported hearing the granddaughter’s screams for help and promptly contacted emergency services. Nate Chapman, a resident nearby, described the scene, saying, I run across the street, and then right over by the staircase there, it’s where her grandfather was shot in the stomach a couple of times. He was on his back, not moving.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are trying to determine the motive behind the break-in and apprehend the suspect, who remains at large.

Seeking Justice

Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Those who wish to provide information can contact Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Conclusion: Seeking Answers and Closure

As the community mourns the loss of a brave grandfather, efforts are underway to bring justice to the family and ensure the safety of the neighborhood. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and solidarity in the face of adversity.

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