Security guard killed, officer and 6 others injured - Florida shooting

In a tragic incident early Saturday morning, a security guard was killed and seven others, including a police officer, were injured in a shooting at a popular commercial establishment in Doral, Florida, just five miles west of Miami.

The altercation began inside the Martini Bar at CityPlace Doral, a well-known shopping and entertainment complex, when a fight broke out among patrons. A security guard, who was on duty at the time, intervened in an attempt to deescalate the situation but was fatally shot by the gunman.

Two City of Doral Police Officers, who were part of a security detail, responded immediately to the incident. A shootout ensued between the officers and the gunman, resulting in the death of the suspect. During the exchange of gunfire, one of the officers sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the lower extremity. The injured officer, a four-year veteran of the force, managed to apply a tourniquet to himself, showcasing a level of self-aid training that likely contributed to his survival.

In addition to the security guard and the officer, six bystanders were caught in the crossfire. Among the injured were one female and five males, two of whom are in critical condition, while the remaining four are reported to be in stable condition. The victims were transported to area hospitals, including Jackson Trauma Center and Kendall Regional Trauma Center, for treatment.

The shooting occurred around 3:30 a.m., a time when the bar was still bustling with late-night activity. Witnesses reported hearing a series of gunshots that were initially mistaken for fireworks due to their rapid succession. The loud and frightening sounds of the gunfire were enough to be felt physically by residents in nearby apartment buildings, indicating the severity of the situation.

The Doral Police Department, along with the Miami-Dade Police Department and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. The Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office was also present at the scene following the shootout.

This incident comes exactly one year after Doral police officers participated in an extensive training session for a mass casualty active shooter drill at the same establishment. The training was intended to prepare officers for such a scenario, which unfortunately became a reality.

The Martini Bar, where the shooting took place, is a popular nightlife spot within CityPlace Doral, which features a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The complex is a central hub for locals and visitors alike, making the shooting all the more shocking to the community.

The identities of the security guard and the suspect have not been released pending notification of next of kin. The condition of the injured officer and the bystanders is being closely monitored, with updates expected as they become available.

Local authorities have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and have reassured the public that they are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome. The community has been left reeling from the violence, with many expressing their concern and sorrow over the incident.

As the investigation continues, officials are calling for any witnesses or individuals with information about the shooting to come forward to assist law enforcement in their efforts to understand the full scope of the incident. The motive behind the altercation and subsequent shooting remains unclear, and authorities are determined to uncover the details surrounding this senseless act of violence.