Florida: 1 Dead, 1 Injured After a Gunman Opened Fire at Walmart
A shooting incident occurred at approximately 3:00 PM on Wednesday at a Walmart store in Florida City, where two individuals were shot during the altercation, according to Fox News.
One of the victims sustained injuries to the foot, while the other suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was later transported to the hospital via air rescue. Unfortunately, the victim shot in the abdomen passed away despite medical efforts.
Meanwhile, a third customer experienced a panic attack during the incident and required medical attention.
In response to the shooting, law enforcement authorities promptly evacuated all customers and employees from the store to conduct their investigation.
One of the individuals involved in the shooting is believed to be an employee of Walmart, adding complexity to the situation.
Police revealed that the incident stemmed from an argument between two groups, each consisting of three individuals.
The argument escalated into a physical altercation, during which one person had a gun and discharged it, resulting in injuries to the two victims.
Upon entering the store, police managed to apprehend one of the suspects involved in the shooting. However, four other individuals connected to the incident fled the scene.
Authorities confirmed that one of the victims, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, was a customer hit by a stray bullet.
Meanwhile, the victim who died was reportedly involved in the altercation.
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Florida City Walmart Shooting Incident
A cellphone video captured the chaotic scene inside the Walmart store moments after the shooting, showing people trying to assist one of the victims who was lying on the floor, per NBC Miami.
Witnesses recounted hearing approximately six gunshots, prompting panic among customers and employees who began running to safety.
A man present in the store at the time of the incident described the unsettling moment when the shots rang out and everyone started fleeing. The store was open and crowded with numerous customers when the shooting occurred in the front area.
Among those present were two young children, as well as several customers and workers who were near where the gunfire erupted.
The area surrounding the store was swarmed with police officers, with multiple officers approaching the scene with their weapons drawn. The authorities conducted a thorough search for the suspects, with a man being placed in handcuffs and taken into custody by Florida City Police.
Emergency responders from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue promptly arrived and treated five individuals with minor cuts and scrapes sustained during their escape from the gunfire. These individuals were treated outside the store and released. Additionally, a woman who suffered a head injury while fleeing sought treatment at a local hospital.
Amid the ongoing investigation, police seek the public's assistance in locating the other four suspects involved in the altercation and shooting.
Surveillance footage is being reviewed to aid the investigation, and any information from witnesses can play a crucial role in apprehending those responsible for the violent incident at Walmart in Florida City.
Florida Shooting Victim Identified
The victim who lost his life in the shooting at Florida City Walmart has been identified as 23-year-old Nathaniel Baez, BNO News noted.
In response to the incident, Walmart issued a statement expressing their profound sadness over what transpired inside their store. They extended their heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the deceased victim.
Walmart pledged to cooperate fully with local law enforcement authorities throughout the investigation process.
As the incident is still under investigation, the company deferred further inquiries to the police.
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This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Bert Hoover
WATCH: Shooting reported at Florida City Walmart, officials say - From CBS Miami