Jamari Charles’ family told 7News life for all of them changed drastically, New Year’s Day.

“He’s so young. 14 years old, full of life,” said Talia Stewart, Charles’ aunt.

Charles was riding an ATV when he collided with a car near Southwest 220th Street and 118th Avenue as celebratory fireworks continued going off, Thursday night.

Charles had just received the ATV as a Christmas gift.

At first, his family had gotten some good news after he was taken to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital in critical but stable condition.

“He has no broken bones. There was no internal bleeding or anything like that,” said Stewart.

However, Charles wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and has swelling on his brain as a result.

His doctors are keeping him sedated for the time being.

“He did sustain a head injury so right now we’re just trying to make sure that that is fine, but he is gonna be out of school for the rest of the year and he’s gonna be doing rehab and therapy,” said Stewart.

As an athlete and student at Arthur & Polly Mays 6-12 Conservatory of the Arts, his family described Charles as being passionate about football.

His family also said Charles is kind and loves his family.

“He’s a very respectful kid. We have a very big family, he’s very family-oriented,” said Stewart.

His family now sharing their love for him as he looks at several months to recover from the crash.

“We hate that it happened so young because the brain is still developing. We do believe that God can do anything, all things, God can do anything and God is a healer, so you know that he’ll make it out,” said Stewart.

For now, Charles’ family continues to pray that they receive more good news once he is no longer sedated.

The driver of the other vehicle was not injured in the crash and no charges have been filed.

The family has created a GoFundMe asking for assistance to cover Charles’ medical expenses. If you would like to donate, click here.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the crash unfolded near Southwest 220th Street and 118th Avenue, just after 6 p.m., Thursday.

The teen was reportedly riding a four-wheeler he had recently received as a gift for Christmas when he collided with a vehicle.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue crews transported the teen to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital in critical but stable condition.

The condition of the driver of the other vehicle involved is unknown.

7News cameras were rolling as crews loaded the ATV onto a trailer.

The circumstances that led up to the crash remain under investigation.

All across the region, celebrations are planned Wednesday, from Fort Lauderdale to Miami and even all the way down to the Florida Keys.

The Big Orange will rise in downtown Miami, it will be anchors away in Fort Lauderdale, and the shoe will drop in the Keys, as tens of thousands of revelers ring in 2026.

At Bayfront Park, the Big Orange — a 35-foot, 2,000-pound LED sculpture — will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a 400-foot rise to the top of the InterContinental Miami at midnight. The iconic “Mr. Neon” will begin its ascent at 6 p.m.

An estimated 100,000 people attended last year’s event at Bayfront Park in what organizers called the “biggest Hispanic New Year’s Eve gathering in the country.”

In true Miami fashion, South Florida didn’t wait for midnight to start the party.

There’s no better place than Miami to celebrate New Year’s, no better place. We had to be here,” said a woman.

Some came from across the world to celebrate in the 305.

“I’m from Zimbabwe. 20 hours in the plane,” said one woman.

The Miami skyline will be lit up by thousands of fireworks synchronized with music the second midnight strikes.

Great views aren’t the only thing partygoers will get to see at night.

Willy Chirino, Flo Rida, and Marshmello are all scheduled to perform Wednesday night.

“We’ve got a fusion of Latin hip hop, all the talent of South Florida is gonna be out here tonight,” said a man.

“I’m very excited to see Marshmello,” said a woman.

The crowds will have several bites available to eat as they enjoy the beats throughout the night.

All of the excitement will lead up to the moment everyone is waiting for.

“Two minutes ’til, we’ll raise it to the top,” said Steve Carpenter, the designer of the Big Orange.

The iconic orange will make its climb up the side of the InterContinental at 11:58 p.m. for everyone to begin counting down.

“It’s free to the public, so anybody and everybody can come down and see it and they have food trucks and they have bands, it’s amazing,” said Carpenter.

The party in downtown Miami is expected to carry on past midnight.

In downtown Fort Lauderdale, a 900-pound anchor made of steel and covered in 5,000 LED lights will slowly drop as the clock strikes midnight. The anchor was chosen to reflect the city as the marine capital of the world.

“We’re here to celebrate the New Year and say goodbye to the old year,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis.

As with years past, kids got to start ringing in the New Year early in the afternoon.

“There’ll be activities for kids, there’ll be kiosks for food, it’s gonna be a great festival for everyone to enjoy,” said Trantalis.

“We’re gonna have a DJ on stage, we’ll have a bunch of inflatables over here in the park. We’re gonna have pony rides, petting zoos, face painting, arts and crafts,” said Todd Stilphen, the Fort Lauderdale community program manager.

The anchor lit up at 7 p.m. for those that need to be in bed before midnight.

As the night rolled in, the crowds grew and the excitement escalated.

For many visiting from out of state, the mild temperatures made for the perfect time to be outdoors for the countdown.

“This is the best place on earth, I guess, I don’t know,” said a tourist.

As for some of the youngest partygoers, they shared their New Year’s resolutions with 7News as they wait for the anchor to drop.

“I wanna learn to do times,” said one girl.

“Play outside more,” said another girl.

“Eat more veggies,” said a boy.

“I’m gonna practice skateboarding more often,” said another boy.

For anyone looking to head to downtown Fort Lauderdale, officials have Southwest Second Street closed between Southwest Fifth Avenue and Southwest First Avenue, with the surrounding streets restricted to local traffic.

“We’re gonna ring in the New Year, we’ll be safe, we’ll be happy and I hope we’ll be successful for everyone,” said Trantalis.

Officials also said there will be an enhanced police presence during the festivities to ensure everyone’s safety.

In the Keys, a giant red shoe will drop outside the Bourbon Street Pub on Duval Street. Year after year, a drag queen sits inside the supersized heel as a rowdy crowd of revelers gather on the street below.

No matter where you eventually decide to celebrate, officials say they just want you to do it safely.

“The best way to stay safe while celebrating New Year’s is by leaving the fireworks to the experts,” Miami-Dade Fire Rescue spokesperson Erika Benitez said. “If you decide to celebrate at home, only buy fireworks from approved vendors and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.”

First responders work to prevent many of the thousands of fireworks-related injuries and fires reported nationwide every year. One way they do this is by reminding revelers to wear protective eyewear, light fireworks on pavement, and keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby.

Better yet, they say, sit back and leave it to the professionals.

“Make sure that you have a sober adult, a sober, responsible adult who is in charge of discharging the fireworks. Make sure you’re shooting the fireworks off of a hard flat surface,” Dan Peart, the Director of Government Affairs for Phantom Fireworks, said. “I know a lot of people are shooting fireworks from their lawn. If it’s possible, you can lay down a piece of plywood to give yourself a hard flat surface, and again, you can brace the items in there if you’re shooting aerial fireworks.”

So, no matter how you decide to celebrate the New Year this year, be sure to do it safely and responsibly.

If you’re going to be outdoors, remember to bring a jacket as temperatures are forecasted to be in the 40s by the time the clock strikes midnight in some parts of South Florida.

Hollywood Police units responded to a call of a possible deceased person on the sand near Cleveland Street, at around 7:15 a.m. on Friday.

Responding officers arrived to find one person dead on the sand. The body was wrapped in a white sheet.

“It was literally a body covered in some type of cheap tarp or something,” said Monie Hann, who is visiting from North Carolina.

Authorities have confirmed the deceased person was a woman between 40 and 50-years-old.

Residents in the area told 7News they were shaken by the discovery.

“My aunt was the one that found it actually,” said area resident Ruby Burr. “That was definitely alarming. Don’t wanna die on Christmas.”

Others who were visiting the beach said this disturbing news was the last thing they expected to encounter.

“It was just saddening because it’s the day after Christmas and somebody just lost their sister, their daughter, their mother and yeah, I’m still kind of shocked,” said Hann

Hann shared cell phone video with 7News that shows investigators removing the body from the beach.

Hollywood PD officials stated that a person of interest was identified, and detectives believe that the individuals involved knew each other.

Authorities are working on notifying the deceased woman’s family. They currently suspect foul play in her death.

If you have any information on this crime, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Officials say Frontier Airlines flight 2802 was enroute to San Juan, Puerto Rico when it was forced to head west over Abaco in the Bahamas to make an emergency landing in Miami.

The Airbus A320 managed to land safely and was taken to Gate F18, where it was met by multiple fire trucks.

Officials have not determined the exact cause for the emergency landing but Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said they believe the aircraft experienced a fuel leak from the central tank as it flew over the Atlantic.

Crews were seen inspecting the aircraft after passengers were able to safely disembark.

The flight, which was originally heading directly to San Juan, has since been able to take off from MIA shortly before 8:30 p.m. and is expected to land in Puerto Rico around midnight, Thursday.

The emergency landing did not impact airport operations.

The exact cause of the emergency landing is under investigation.

Surveillance video provided by Fernando Bantos shows the subject walking through the lobby of the Cedar Glenn Condominium, located in Northeast Miami-Dade, before he picked up a nearby package and walked out.

“You can tell they’re up to no good,” said Bantos.

Another camera showed the same individual exiting his vehicle that was parked right outside and walking through the entrance of the condo, just before 5:00 a.m., Tuesday.

That footage also shows a second person exiting the same vehicle, then accompanying the other individual while carrying a large, square package wrapped in white wrapping paper.

Bantos believes those two individuals used the square package as a decoy, adding that the duo targeted his package since he had received confirmation his order had been delivered just hours before.

“He looks at the table, and he picks up the package, and then they walk out,” said Bantos.

After a few minutes, the brazen thieves are seen leaving the condo and driving away.

“They probably thought it was something expensive, like electronics or maybe a laptop, computer or something, because it didn’t look like a cheap package,” said Bantos.

Bantos told 7News the worst part of the theft was the package had a toy that was intended to be a Christmas gift from Santa for his young son.

“We thought we were gonna give it to him tonight, ’cause we celebrate it at midnight. I don’t know what Santa’s gonna do, I really don’t,” said Bantos. “It’s frustrating, and we actually don’t know what we’re gonna do. It’s not something we can go across the street and buy from Walmart or Target; it came from China. It was not even that expensive, but the frustration is really horrible that Santa is not gonna bring whatever he chose.”

Bantos said he and his wife are now scrambling to find another gift to save Christmas for his son.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is investigating.

If you have any information on this theft or the subjects’ whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Sylvester Grice Jordan stood before a judge on Saturday. The 32-year-old was charged in connection to the fatal shooting of his girlfriend’s stepfather at a home they once shared.

“You’re being charged with second-degree murder, also display of a weapon while committing a crime,” the judge said during the bond hearing.

The victim was identified as Yasmany Rodriguez Fernandez.

According to the arrest report, Jordan, his dog, his girlfriend, Rodriguez Fernandez and Rodriguez Fernandez’s wife all lived together at a home near the 3300 block of Northwest 177th Terrace.

This is where, detectives said, the tragedy unfolded.

On Thursday, Rodriguez Fernandez demanded Jordan remove his dog from the home after Jordan had moved out about a week before, investigators said.

Things escalated and, according to his arrest report, that’s when Jordan opened fire, striking Rodriguez Fernandez in his front yard.

After the victim fell to the ground, he pleaded for help, and that’s when, police said, Jordan pointed his firearm at the older man’s head, counted down from five and fired.

Miami Gardens Police officers arrived to find Rodriguez Fernandez with multiple gunshot wounds, clinging to life on his front porch.

Paramedics with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue airlifted the patient to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

As of Monday afternoon, Jordan was behind bars facing felony charges. He faces no bond for the charge of second degree murder, and a bond of $2,500 for the charge of displaying a weapon while committing a crime.

Jordan also has a fugitive hold out of Broward County.

All 18 units of the apartment complex were rendered uninhabitable due to the fire.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the 11600 block of Northeast 18th Drive on Friday evening.

7News cameras captured firefighters battling the flames that were billowing from the roof. Crews had to tear open parts of the roof to vent the fire.

“It was a big blaze, as soon as I open my side door, I see that the front door just fell off the hinges due to the blazes.” said Leslie Lagrandeur, an eight-year resident of the complex.

Lagrandeur captured the blaze through cell phone video, with the fire erupting in the apartment across from his. Lagrandeur called 911 and reported the fire, and made sure to assist people in the process.

“Went door to door knocking on everybody’s door to make sure everybody comes outside.” he said.

Extra fire crews were called in to help put out the fire.

The blaze forced several residents to evacuate the building. Residents stood across their homes as they watched firefighters try to contain the flames.

Some residents were very emotional as they watched their homes erupt in flames.

Area resident Julie Avalos said she ran out of her apartment as fast as she could when the fire started.

“From corner of the building caught fire and then within under two minutes, the whole building was under smoke. We don’t know where it started but it spread really quickly,” she said. “My uncle managed to go back for our cat, and a neighbor went back for their dog, because they were still inside, and luckily we have our cat, and our neighbor has their dog.”

In the aftermath, the owner of the complex, Guy Lorenzo, shared his reaction to the fire, as he dealt with what remains of his property.

“The fire came from that apartment there. The door got busted quick, and then the whole inside is burned.” said Lorenzo. “You keep coming back, you know, and then they had to keep going up there, and they keep more water, more water, more water until they can put down the fire.”

However, the damage from the fire will remain, and residents are grateful to be alive.

“There’s nobody injured, nobody, no deaths, no nothing like that, so, that’s all that matters at that point.” said Lagrandeur. “Everybody gets to enjoy the holidays.”

Officials say no injuries were reported from the fire, and investigators are searching into how the fire began. The Red Cross has assisted the families affected by the incident.

Please check back on WSVN.com and 7News for more details on this developing story.

According to City of Miami Police, someone shot anti-gun violence activist Dwight Wells multiple times in front of his business in Liberty City, Oct. 10.

Paramedics rushed the 40-year-old victim to Jackson Memorial’s Ryder Trauma Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The local community activist and leader lost his life to the same violence he dedicated his life’s work to prevent.

During a news conference held Thursday, Wells’ family asked the public to help find answers as to who pulled the trigger.

“It would mean more than a million dollars to me if someone come forth and tell us who was the shooter that shot my son,” Mary Brown, Well’s mother, said.

In surveillance footage recently released by police, the suspected gunman can be seen sprinting across the screen.

The nightmare unfolded in front of Wells’ restaurant. Police said the masked man approached the victim during a game of dominoes and opened fire.

“Where’s my baby?” Brown said.

Wells’ sister, Trowana Barron, remembered her brother, who was known as Screamer, as a local leader.

“Screamer was a pillar to the community. Everybody loved Screamer,” Barron said. “So the thing is, who would want to kill Screamer?”

The grieving sibling called his death not only a loss to their family, but to the young men Wells mentored through his “Bikes Up, Guns Down” initiative. Wells founded the initiative with the goal of helping young ones pedal toward peace in an effort to end gun violence.

“Keeping a gun out of their hands is their main objective, and that’s what we’re all about,” Dwight Wells said before he passed.

“Another young man said he was with Screamer since he was 13. He’s now 22, so it’s a big loss,” Barron said.

As Wells’ family continues mourning his loss, detectives on the case beg the community for help in finding the person who pulled that trigger.

“He was a member of the community, a positive member of the community, and if you did see something, please say something,” Miami Police Detective Roberto Gonzalez said.

If you have any information on this shooting, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

7News cameras captured the mangled gray Honda Accord involved in the wreck that took place near the intersection of Ali Baba Avenue and Northwest 22nd Avenue, at around 6:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Cameras also showed the train stopped in the tracks near the car.

According to Opa-Locka Police, the passengers were stuck in traffic and unable to get out of the train’s path. Fortunately, they were able to jump out before impact.

The impact shattered the Accord’s windows and caused the airbags to deploy.

A 7News crew spotted some people standing near the car and using their cellphones, but it’s unclear whether or not they were the occupants involved.

Police have not provided further details about the crash, as they continue to investigate.

Officers temporarily shut down traffic near the crossing, but it has since reopened to traffic.

According to City of Miami Police, an employee called them at around 8 a.m. on Sunday to report that the woman had been found inside the business, located at 968 SW Eighth St.

Units arrived at the scene and blocked off the area. Detectives identified the woman as 32-year-old Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez.

Investigators said Garay Sanchez entered the Dollar Tree just before closing time on Saturday night, made her way through an area designated for employees only, then stepped into the freezer around 10 p.m.

Nearby shoppers who spoke with 7News said the disturbing discovery left them shaken.

“That’s so crazy, because nobody knows how she got in. Nobody saw her,” said Ninette Padilla.

“I would never believe, in a Dollar Tree, you would find a dead body in the Dollar Tree. I’m totally in shock,” said Margarita Puig.

Meanwhile, detectives are working to figure out what led to what they described as an unclassified death.

“She was 32, and it’s really sad that she did what she did,” said Padilla.

Police said they are in touch with Garay Sanchez’s family, as they work to determine whether she struggled with her mental health and what might have propelled her to walk into the freezer.

A GoFundMe has been created to return Garay Sanchez’s body to Nicaragua and funeral services. Click here if you would like to donate.

Josue Paz, the son of the homeowner, said that one of his birthday gifts caused the fire that took his home. The incident happened near the 181st block of Northwest 53rd Street.

“The bike was right here and it just exploded upwards and I was just asleep and I woke up immediately like that and I just had to get everybody out.” said Paz.

City of Miami Fire Rescue rushed in and fought the alleged e-bike fire afterward, subduing it in minutes.

“All my birthday gifts got destroyed, all my clothes got destroyed. All my shoes got destroyed. Everything of mine got destroyed.” said Paz.

Everyone in the home was safely removed before the fire spread out of control, but Paz’s five family members and dog have been displaced.

“As you can see the bike that caught on fire, these are the remains of it.” said Paz.

However, Paz said that he was grateful that he and his loved ones made it out alive.

“It’s upsetting, but we’ve got the most important thing which is life you know.” said Paz.

The American Red Cross has stepped in to help the Paz family, and investigators are working on determining the cause of the fire.

According to police, a crash involving two vehicles happened outside a home near Northwest 10th Avenue and 125th Street, Friday afternoon.

7Skyforce was hovering above the scene where one of those vehicles appeared to have rammed through a fence following the crash.

A person could be seen loaded onto a stretcher nearby as rescue crews looked through the vehicle.

Louis Lubin, who lives at the home where the crash happened, told 7News he was inside his home when the crash happened.

“I was in the living room, watching TV, and I heard a big boom and when I looked out the window, I see the car rolling right inside my yard,” he said.

The car ultimately came to a stop just short of his home.

“That was a big noise,” said Lubin.

“I was just in shock,” said area resident Neska.

Officials confirmed four people were injured, with one of them needing to be airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center.

The other three were transported as trauma alerts by ambulance to Ryder Trauma Center.

Their exact conditions are unknown.

Meantime, back at the scene, Lubin says in his nearly 50 years living at that home, this wasn’t the first close call he’s experienced.

“One day, a pickup truck was right there and it stopped right under my window! At that time, we only had two stop signs, then we fought with them and they put four stop signs,” he said.

Despite the added safety measures, four people are now recovering in the hospital after yet another crash in the neighborhood.

“I’m just happy that everybody, though at the end of the day, made it to the hospital and they’re still breathing,” said Neska.

7News cameras captured a tow truck moving both cars involved in the crash away from the scene.

Authorities have not released any information as to what led up to the crash.

Video provided by the Humane Society of Broward County showed the felines squished together inside the small crate.

Officials there said good Samaritans made the disturbing discovery on a dirt road near Broadview Park, finding 17 cats, including some kittens as young as 8 weeks old and others as old as 4 years.

Staff at the Humane Society described the conditions the cats were found in as “heartbreaking” and “unsafe.”

Veterinarians got to work administering care to the cats and kittens who, they said, weighed only one pound. Some of those kittens were so unhealthy and underfed that, veterinary staff said, it was nearly impossible to evaluate them.

“It is heartbreaking, and it’s really sad. They were crammed in there. It’s just, you know, there are resources; if you can’t take care of your pets, please don’t abandon them like this, said Cherie Watcher, the Humane Society of Broward’s vice president of marketing. “If these cats had not been found and sat there all day today in the heat, it would’ve been horrific.”

A situation like this is not entirely uncommon.

“Seventeen cats is a lot,” Watcher said. “Couple weeks ago, somebody dropped a box of 15 guinea pigs off outside of our admissions department. So, I think if anything, it reiterates the importance of spaying and neutering your pets because it can quickly lead to a big problem.”

Staff said the vulnerable kittens will be placed under the care of experienced volunteer foster parents, who will care for them until they are well enough to be put up for adoption.

According to vets, some of the older cats have been nursed back to good health and are available for adoption.

If you are interested in adopting any of these cats or any other animals at the Humane Society of Broward County, click here.

Jose Miguel Perez-Molina appeared before Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Mindy S. Glazer, late Wednesday morning.

“You were arrested for lewd and lascivious conduct on a child,” said Glazer.

The 39-year-old was charged with lewd and lascivious conduct on a child younger than 16, according to an arrest report from Sunny Isles Beach Police.

Investigators said the teen requested an Uber on Sunday afternoon from a salon in Aventura to a friend’s home in Sunny Isles Beach. She was picked up by a driver identified in the app as “Jose,” matching Perez-Molina and his Toyota Corolla, the report states.

According to the report, during the ride, Perez-Molina repeatedly asked the victim if she had a boyfriend, called her “pretty,” and questioned her age. When she told him she was 15, he replied that it was “a problem” because he was 39, the report said.

Police said Perez-Molina stopped in a plaza on Collins Avenue while the teen was trying to get the correct address.

While parked, he allegedly turned around, touched her knee, caressed her face and touched a scab on her arm, telling her he could “take care of” her. The teen told detectives the touching was unwanted.

According to the report, Perez-Molina also suggested they park somewhere so he could “teach [her] how to kiss.” The girl said she repeatedly told him she was only 15 and declined.

Fearing the situation would escalate, the victim recorded part of the interaction on her phone. Police said the audio captured Perez-Molina making comments about kissing her and waiting for her despite her age.

According to the report, the teen ran from the vehicle in tears once she arrived at her destination and immediately told a friend and her parents, who contacted police.

Sunny Isles Beach Police officers later showed the victim a photo lineup, and she identified the suspect “without hesitation,” according to the report.

License plate reader hits also placed Perez-Molina’s vehicle in the area at the time of the incident.

Uber released a statement that reads in part:

“What this rider experienced is deeply disturbing… We take reports like this very seriously. We removed the driver’s access to the app as soon as this was reported…”

Perez-Molina was arrested and transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in West Miami-Dade.

In court Wednesday, Glazer issued a stay-away order to the suspect and she ordered him to refrain from contacting the victim.

“You must stay at least 500 feet away from the victim, her home and school at all times,” she said.

Perez-Molina was given a $7,500 bond. He remains behind bars on an immigration hold.

City of Miami Police units responded to reports of a man stabbed in a loading dock near the 200 block of Northwest Sixth Street, just before 1 a.m. on Sunday.

First responders arrived to find the victim suffering from stab wounds to his stomach.

Paramedics with Miami Fire Rescue transported the injured man to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition.

Back at the scene, crime scene investigators cordoned the area off and set up police tape as they combed for clues.

The stabbing occurred less than half a mile away from the City of Miami Police Department.

Hours later, between businesses and tourists walking the street, it seemed like it was business as usual in the heart of the Magic City. The incident, however, had some tourists feeling on edge.

“We always watch ‘The First 48,’ right? And we always see the Miami Police Department,” said visitor Jermaine Swavey, “so, to be here in Miami and finally see it, and we saw it under these circumstances, you know, somebody got hurt.”

“You’re on vacation, and you hear somebody stabbed. It’s scary,” said Trista Diau, who is visiting from North Carolina.

“Not in this area, basically, you know, that’s what I thought. I mean, if it happens somewhere more far, heard about it, but yeah, it’s very shocking,” said tourist Aaron Kohler.

Antonia Grandberry was traveling from Texas when the frightening turn to her Miami trip happened.

“Think, you know, you’re in an area that things like that wouldn’t happen, and it’s alarming that that happened so close to where I am right now, which is very scary,” she said.

As of Monday morning, police have yet to release any information about the person responsible.

If you have any information on this stabbing or the subject’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Investigators surrounded a home near 15th Street and Northwest 8th Avenue, where they believed the suspect was hiding.

After a preliminary investigation, 46-year-old Horace Ross was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and sexual battery on a victim 18-years-old or older.

7News cameras captured Ross existing the home with this hands in the air.

He is being held inside Broward County Main Jail.

“They’re dangerous. They’re aggressive, that’s what scares me with the kids and the cats, the animals,” said Yolanda Sauer.

Residents were on edge after a family spotted the coyote sneaking through several backyards near the 100 block of Shadow Drive, Friday.

Yolanda Sauer told 7News she saw several police officers near her home when she heard about the coyote.

“A whole bunch of police officers were at my house and I said, ‘What happened?’ And he goes, ‘There’s a very aggressive coyote in your backyard,'” she said.

Surveillance video captured the coyote sprinting through the family’s backyard around 10 a.m., Friday.

The chaos unfolded around the time Yolanda says she would normally take her teacup chihuahua outside.

“He jumped the fence into this neighbor’s house and he jumped from there, I guess, to the back,” said Yolanda.

Yolanda’s son, Charles, who lives next door, said the family’s dogs aren’t the only pets they’re concerned about.

“We have African sulcata tortoises. He just went up to it and just was like sniffing it,” said Charles. “I saw him through the palms and he was running around.”

In the surveillance footage, the coyote is seen approaching their pet tortoise, Bubble, staring it down as the pet stood its ground.

Moments later, the coyote turned around and left.

Another neighbor captured the coyote from a different angle, posting the footage to Facebook in an effort to alert others.

“I felt safe with our backyard here until right now,” said Yolanda.

In a neighborhood that’s often teeming with children playing on Friday afternoons, the Sauer family is concerned about their wellbeing.

“I don’t want to see it hurt but I don’t want to see a child hurt either,” said Yolanda.

The Miami Springs Police Department said the coyote has since been captured and that there is no longer any danger to residents.

Officials recommend anybody that encounters a coyote should make loud noises in an effort to scare it off and to keep pets indoors as often as possible.

Footage from a nearby home’s Ring doorbell camera captures a white sedan approaching a neighborhood on Wednesday afternoon. The driver steps out and removes the dog from the car.

The confused canine tried to get back into the car, circling it and getting onto its two legs as it tried to figure out why the owner wasn’t helping it.

But moments later, the driver takes off, leaving the dog behind.

Things, however, ended up on a positive note after a good Samaritan stepped in to rescue the stranded dog.

The homeowner, Abraham Siu, watched the video playback, posted it on social media, and ran outside to comfort the animal.

“I thought it was crazy. These types of stories, you kind of hear people drop them off in a remote area where there’s nobody, but to see it here in a residential area is uncommon,” said Siu.

He said he was shocked to see what had occurred.

“You can hear him breathing very fast, so he must have been like anxious or nervous,” said Siu.

That’s when Bajas, a groomer at Wag Spot, saw the video on social media and reached out to the homeowner to offer help to the abandoned dog.

“I saw the video, and I posted it, ‘Hey, do you guys need help? If you guys want to get this dog adopted, I’m up to give him a free bath or some grooming so he can get nice and clean,’ because every dog needs to get cleaned up,” she said.

A third person, Pastor Garcilazo, also spotted the video on the community app and rushed over to rescue the pup.

“When I saw the video, I was like, ‘This can’t be possible. Why would someone do something like this? I didn’t understand it,” he said.

He took the dog to Wag Spot, where the team gave it a complete makeover.

The staff at Wag Spot groomed the dog, removing excess hair and bathing it. A video posted to social media shows the dog greeting those who groomed him and wagging its tail happily.

Garcilazo said he ultimately decided to adopt the dog and gave him a new name, “Leo.”

“I spent the whole afternoon with him, and I noticed he was very sweet and smart, and I decided to keep him,” he said.

Bajas said she was happy to help Leo with his makeover and is grateful to know he found new parents quickly.

“Out of all the bad things, Leo needed something good, and the good thing that I can provide was this service to him,” she said.

As for the person who abandoned the dog, their whereabouts remain unclear.

It’s also unclear whether they will face any charges. According to Florida law, animal abandonment is a first-degree misdemeanor.

School district officials said the students got sick after they ingested some kind of edible at the school, located at 1800 SW Fifth Place, on Wednesday morning.

“I don’t put anything past any child, but the bottom line is she was drugged,” said Tshura Jones. “I’m going to press charges.”

Jones said her 14-year-old daughter, who is a freshman at the high school, was one of those students who was transported to Broward Health Medical Center as a precaution.

She said it all started with a text from her daughter early Wednesday morning requesting to be picked up early.

“I got the message at 9:21 a.m. stating, ‘Mom, can I come home? I’m not feeling well,” said Jones, recalling the message. “‘I took one of the candies, and right now, I’m feeling like I wanna pass out, so I said ‘OK, that is not candy. It is laced, and you need to get to the nurse immediately.”

Jones said her daughter did not know what she was ingesting, only that another student presented it to her as some sort of candy, and she started snacking on it during class.

7News spoke to the shaken teen moments after her release from the hospital on Wednesday. Her mother asked that her identity be kept private.

The 14-year-old said the substance tasted like candy.

“They pulled out something in a green bag, and it tasted like candy,” she said.

She said she wasn’t the only one who ingested the candy, but soon found out it had been laced with marijuana.

“There was a girl who passed out in the classroom. I was scared,” said the young girl.

The teen added that the edible gave her an “out of body experience.”

Other students provided additional details of the incident to 7News.

“It’s like different colors, and it looked like regular candy, but 10 minutes later, they just passed out. I was like, ‘Wow,'” said witness Brandon Jordan.

“How does a child get a hold of edibles?” said another student.

“Students shouldn’t be indulging in this type of activity at school,” said a third student.

“You don’t know where it came from. Don’t take it!” said a fourth student.

Jones added she got scared when she heard the news, but is thankful her daughter is OK.

Now, she hopes this will be a lesson for parents to look at what their kids are bringing to school and to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again.

“I used to work in a rehab facility. I know fentanyl, these drugs, she could’ve had that, and that would’ve been it for my daughter. Why bring drugs into a school? You come here to learn,” she said.

As her daughter physically recovers from Wednesday’s events, Jones said the emotional toll this nightmare has taken weighs even heavier on them.

“It’s disheartening because now she’s telling me she doesn’t want to come back,” said Jones. “I don’t feel safe sending her to school.”

The teenage girl was treated for nausea, but she and the other students are expected to be OK.

Jones said her daughter is facing school suspension as a result of the incident.

The other students are also facing disciplinary action, but it’s unclear what exactly it will be.

As of late Wednesday evening, officials have not specified where those edibles came from or how they were brought to campus.

Hundreds of holiday shoppers waited outside the BrandsMart USA in Opa-locka before doors opened, Thursday.

“We’re stealing deals, let’s get it,” said shopper Kevin Bowe.

“Today is really our Super Bowl — the doorbusters and the biggest savings of the years,” said Hansel Lopez, BrandsMart USA’s vice president of marketing.

Lopez said his role feels more important than ever to deliver affordable deals for customers following a year-long struggle across the country with rising inflation concerns, tariff uncertainty and shaky consumer confidence at times.

“Especially now with economic uncertainty, and certain households, we kind of want to be that supports to families that are looking for a good deal,” he said.

Despite the economic uncertainty, consumer spending is up 8% compared to last year, reaching nearly $79 billion just in the month of November.

Shoppers like Bowe snagged what they were looking and still have other deals in their sights.

“Still doing a lot of shopping,” said Bowe. “It ain’t over yet.”

According to Lopez, some deals offered by BrandsMart USA on items like kitchen appliances, laptops, tablets, furniture and even e-bikes are like a “double steal.”

“We have two washer-dryers: one Whirlpool, one Samsung. If you buy the washer, you get the dryer for free. Like, come on, you can’t beat that,” said Lopez.

With deals as enticing as that, Jacob Peralta and his family couldn’t turn it down.

“We’re trying to get as much stuff as we can,” said Peralta.

Shoppers flocked to Miami International Mall in Doral throughout the day.

“I’m Christmas shopping, mostly for my kids,” said a woman. “So far, I’ve found some 50% off, 30% off, some pretty good deals.”

“I love spending my money,” said a shopper.

Each store was packed throughout the day.

The mall was so crowded that there was traffic to get in and out of the parking lot, making it tricky for shoppers to find parking.

“For me, shoot, it took 35 minutes to find something,” said one shopper.

Despite the massive crowds, officials with the National Retail Federation predict less people throughout the US will be hitting stores this year compared to last year.

With concerns of rising inflation, experts suggest using what’s called a “1% rule” when making a list of things to buy.

“Take 1% of your annual income and make that the ceiling, so the upper boundary, for the entire season. If you make $70,000, that’s $700 for everything, so for gifts, travel, food, hosting,” said Nicole Lapin, the host of Money Rehab.

Officials across South Florida are expecting around 400,000 people to visit Dolphin Mall between Black Friday and the end of sales for Cyber Monday.

The manager of Perfume Plus Outlet hopes some of those visitors drop by his store.

“For Black Friday, we are running a special 10% off and certain products we have the lowest price in the mall,” the manager said.

Meanwhile, others hit the stores with a different purpose, focusing on what they can get to give to others who need it more.

Julie Jones was shopping for supplies to send to Hurricane Melissa survivors.

“These are going to Jamaica for the victims of Hurricane Melissa. When I saw they were open today 4 to midnight, I said, ‘That’s it. I’ve got to go and get this stuff. We’ve got to be able to help,'” she said.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect deal or you want to enjoy the popular magical snowfall at Dolphin Mall, shoppers should expect large crowds throughout the weekend.

For more information on events happening at Dolphin Mall, click here.

The lawsuit claims Milagro Cooper, a social media influencer also known as Milagro Gramz, posted false and harmful statements about her online.

Wednesday morning, 7News cameras captured Megan as she walked into the federal courthouse in downtown Miami.

She mostly remained quiet outside the building, but she did briefly respond when a photographer spoke to her.

“How are you holding up through all of this?” asked the photographer.

“I’m doing pretty good,” said Megan.

The Grammy winner, 30, is claiming defamation, invasion of privacy, emotional distress and the promotion of an deepfake porn video of the rapper generated with artificial intelligence.

In court, Megan testified that the AI-altered video cost her multiple brand deals, some worth more than a million dollars each.

The case is also one of the first to test Florida’s new deepfake law, which allows victims to sue over AI-generated explicit content shared without consent.

Another important question raised in court is whether Cooper qualifies as media under Florida state law. If so, Megan’s claim could be dismissed.

Megan Thee Stallion, whose legal name is Megan Pete, alleges Cooper participated in targeted social media campaign to harass, intimidate and defame her alongside fellow rapper Daystar Peterson, better known as Tory Lanez.

Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan in a separate trial back in 2020. He is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence.

Ahead of the trial, Lanez and his lawyer were held in contempt for refusing to answer questions in a deposition.

The rapper is seeking unknown damages. Her reputation and possibly a new AI legal standard are now in the hands of a jury.

The jury is expected to reconvene on Monday to continue deliberations.

Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of shots fired near the 200 block of Northwest Second Way, Sunday morning.

“We’re being advised they can hear somebody shooting. It’s coming from the neighbor’s home,” said a dispatcher on Broadcastify audio. “They heard them arguing but heard shots only.”

Upon arrival, BSO deputies and Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue units found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. They began lifesaving measures before rushing him to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Following the initial call, deputies issued a Be on the Lookout alert for a black Honda Civic.

Soon after issuing the alert, 7News cameras captured deputies surrounding the car with their guns drawn.

Deputies were seen detaining a man right beside the car. It’s unclear whether or not that man is responsible for firing the deadly shots.

An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

7News cameras captured a dozen young people wearing “ICE kidnapped my neighbor” T-shirts making their way out of the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Facility in Northwest Miami-Dade on Sunday morning.

The protesters walked out of jail after Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 31 people, most of them with the Sunrise Movement, as they protested what they said were the cruel deportation practices of the Trump administration.

Video posted to social media shows people chanting while holding up “Abolish ICE” signs before deputies arrived at the scene.

Another video posted by the organization shows some of the activists being detained.

“Why are you being arrested?” asked the person filming.

“I’m being arrested for peacefully protesting,” said the activist.

“Obstruction of justice,” said the deputy.

In a third video, activist Kidus Grima can be seen getting arrested by responding deputies.

“This is not the America we deserve. We deserve freedom, safety, and communities that are protected,” he said.

According to MDSO, the group blocked the facility’s entrance and refused repeated orders to move. Those arrested face a trespassing charge.

The chaos unfolded just a few miles away from the detention center dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.”

7News spoke to some of the protesters after they exited TGK.

“Thousands of people are being disappeared far off into the Everglades, and then nobody knows where they are, being treated in horrible conditions. This is what ICE stands for,” said protester Artivista Karnlin. “ICE is a cruel agency. Taking kids away from their parents. This is horrible, and we must never stand for this.”

“I want to live in a country where immigrants who pick our food, clean our stores, make our life and country possible are respected and cared for,” said Grima.

Grima said he marched to demand the shutdown of the federally run facility and the release of immigrants detained at Krome. He added that despite the arrest, he will continue fighting for what he believes.

“Nobody has forgotten them, that no one deserves to be disappeared, and we’re fighting to get them reunited with their families,” he said.

The other protesters are expected to be released sometime on Sunday.

No injuries were reported.

MDSO said in a statement that they “remain committed to protecting both public safety and the rights of our community.”

“Intersection number 17 and 5-4, he’s supposed to be in a wheelchair in the middle of the street,” said a 911 operator.

The wheelchair nearly flattened, and all that remains after the man who uses it was struck by a driver who did not stop police said.

“It’s gonna be a gray SUV traveling westbound on Northwest 54th Street, passing Northwest 18th Avenue,” a police officer radioed in.

“Being a human, I have sympathy with him,” said a Chevron employee who witnessed the hit and run.

That employee works right in front of where the accident happened, near Northwest 54th Street and 18th Avenue.

He told 7News that he knows the victim and said he lives on the streets.

“He lives over here, then I gave him the soda or something,” said the employee.

He said he usually sees the man every day, until now that he was hit.

“He should have stopped the car, take him, put him in the car, and call the rescue, you want to help him,” said the employee.

The man was transported by first responders to Jackson Memorial’s Ryder Trauma Center early Saturday morning.

At this time, police have not released any further information on the condition of the man who was hit, but are still on the hunt for the driver responsible and are seeking the public’s assistance in finding them.

They ask that anybody with any further information on the whereabouts of the driver of that vehicle step forward.

If you have any information on this crime, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

North Dade Middle School in Miami Gardens was chosen as the organization’s 100th project as part of their initiative to enhance learning environments for students and teachers.

“I am pleased to welcome you to the newly redesigned innovation space at North Dade Middle,” student Amekwa Anderson.

The school’s Media Center was turned into a massive innovation space where students can learn, create and collaborate with each other.

“There’s a spot that brings your thoughts to life. It’s a spot where you can sit down and bring in learning and create and collaborate. So it’s a great thing, and it’s an honor to be chosen,” said the school’s principal Jeff Rateau

It’s all in honor of the upcoming College Football Playoff National Championship game happening in Miami Gardens.

“And this is where dreams become reality,” said Eric Poms, Chief Executive Officer, Orange Bowl Committee & 2026 Miami Host Committee.

One of the ways the organization is expanding their legacy work in the community is by revitalizing innovation spaces across different schools.

The updated Media Center is equipped with a fresh paint job, new carpet and furniture, a virtual reality floor, interactive whiteboard, life-size chess pieces and much more.

The enhancement speakers said that it is all aimed at improving these students’ futures.

“The vision of this space is for you all to be able to work with each other and with your teachers, to learn in a different way, because learning from books is important. But here it’s going to take it to a whole another level with the creativity of this space,” said Lourdes Diaz, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Chief Academic Officer.

North Dade Middle is just one several Miami-Dade middle schools set to receive a fabulous makeover.

The national championship is set for Jan. 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

According to Florida Highway Patrol, crews were dispatched to a reported shooting on the northbound entrance ramps of I-95, near Ives Dairy Road, just before 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Upon arrival, FHP troopers administered first aid to the driver of a silver Porsche SUV, who was reportedly shot below the right arm, until Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units arrived.

“Pressure’s being apllied to the wound,” said a first responder in radio transmissions.

Paramedics then transported the victim to HCA Florida Aventura Hospital, where he continues to recover. He is expected to pull through.

Officials believe the subject involved in the road rage shooting may have been driving a black Chevrolet.

A Be on the Lookout alert was issued for the subject’s vehicle, as troopers continued their hunt for that motorist well into the night.

7News cameras captured investigators combing the on-ramp for potential evidence.

This road rage incident is the latest in a troubling trend on South Florida roadways. Just last week, authorities said, a man was shot along Ives Dairy Road, not far from the interstate, in a suspected road rage shooting.

The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.

If you have any information on this shooting or the subject’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Kepner, a Titusville cheerleader who planned to join the military, was found dead Nov. 8 under a bed in her cabin, wrapped in a blanket and covered by life vests, according to a security source briefed on the case who spoke with ABC News.

The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner has not determined her cause or manner of death.

Investigators are examining whether an altercation may have occurred between Kepner and her stepbrother before her death, while also considering other possibilities such as a medical emergency or an overdose, the source told ABC News.

Agents are reviewing surveillance video, access-card records and other ship security data to determine who was near Kepner in the hours leading up to her death.

The Carnival Horizon docked at PortMiami the day Kepner’s body was discovered, prompting the FBI’s Miami field office to launch a federal investigation.

The FBI declined to comment Tuesday. Carnival Cruise Line said its focus remains “supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI.”

Kepner had been traveling with her stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, her father and Hudson’s children.

Days after the teen’s death, Hudson sought to delay a hearing in an unrelated Brevard County family court case, citing the federal investigation.

According to the filing, Hudson’s attorneys were informed that “a criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children” who was on the cruise.

“If the FBI has told a stepmother that one of the siblings may be charged in this case then that means that there’s a greater likelihood obviously that they will be charged,” sad Brad Garrett, a former FBI agent. “We don’t know what the evidence is, let’s say, against one of the stepsiblings but the next procedure would be they issue an arrest warrant.”

The document notes Hudson “cannot be compelled to testify,” saying her statements could be prejudicial to her or her child in the criminal probe.

A separate emergency motion filed Monday by Thomas Hudson — the children’s father and Shauntel Hudson’s former spouse — states the couple’s 16-year-old son is now a suspect in Kepner’s death and is currently living with a third party after being released from custody.

The motion accuses Shauntel Hudson of denying court-ordered parenting time, failing to involve the father in major decisions and placing the children at risk, and seeks temporary custody of the youngest child.

Kepner’s loved ones described her to ABC News as joyful, energetic and deeply devoted to school, volunteering and cheerleading.

She was preparing to graduate this spring and had recently passed military entry testing.

A memorial at her high school parking space has grown with flowers and stuffed animals, and a celebration of life is planned Thursday in Titusville.

No charges have been filed, and federal authorities have not indicated whether Kepner’s death will ultimately be ruled a crime. The investigation remains active.

Davie Fire Rescue units responded to the home located on the 8500 block of Southwest 21st Street on Sunday morning to find the home engulfed in flames, with smoke billowing into the sky.

7News cameras captured fire crews fighting the flames and damaged windows.

Lisa Binger and her husband, Marco, said they spotted the flames and immediately tried to see if anyone was trapped inside.

“He was knocking on the doors and stuff like that, and he said, ‘Let’s break the windows.’ They took a planter and threw it through the window,” said Lisa.

She described the fire she witnessed to 7News.

“The smoke was black and high. The fire was red, orange, and it was crazy,” she said.

Despite several attempts, the couple were unable to make their way to the man living inside because of his belongings blocking their path.

“To find out that there was somebody inside, and they had passed away, and we were just right here, and I don’t know if a little faster, or if he had died before. I don’t know, but it was nerve-racking all day long,” said Lisa.

Fire crews quickly battled the blaze, ultimately extinguishing it.

Neighbors said the man was found deceased in his tub.

“He was in the tub with water, I guess trying to survive, I guess,” said Lisa.

They said they are shocked to learn of his death.

“We’re all in a bit of shock right now, as you can see by everybody that’s here. It’s just very surreal,” said neighbor Kim Baumgardt.

The United Teachers of Dade and the UTD Retiree Chapter on Monday identified the victim as Martin Hoffer, a retired teacher and member of the union.

“United Teachers of Dade and the UTD Retiree Chapter are deeply saddened by the passing of Martin Hoffer, a dedicated educator and cherished member of our union family. Martin retired as a teacher from Miami Lakes K-8, where he inspired generations of students and colleagues with his commitment to education and his unwavering support for public schools. Martin was not only a respected teacher but also a valued member of the UTD Retiree Chapter, where he continued to advocate for educators and contribute to the strength of our union community. His legacy is one of service, compassion, and a lifelong dedication to the well-being of students and teachers alike. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Martin’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. We honor his memory and the impact he made on our schools and our union. Martin Hoffer will be remembered as a true champion of public education and a beloved member of the UTD family.”

Statement from United Teachers of Dade and the UTD Retiree Chapter

Officials with Miami-Dade Schools told 7News Hoffer retired as a special ed teacher in June.

Back at the mobile park, Baumgardt said Hoffer’s wife passed away just a few years ago.

“And after that, we did not see much of Martin anymore,” she said.

Hoffer’s best friend, Mike Schlossberg, told 7News he had gone to check on him after not being able to get in touch with him throughout the day.

“Since his wife died, I call him every day to make sure he’s OK, and I tried calling yesterday,” said Schlossberg.

Hoffer’s neighbors broke the news to Schlossberg that his lifelong friend did not survive.

“I knew Marty since before 9 years old. We grew up in the same apartment house, went to high school together, it’s terrible,” said Schlossberg.

7News cameras captured the victim’s clothes and mementos charred and covered in soot from the fire.

But in the midst of ash and rubble, neighbors are honoring the man, whom they described as a devout husband.

“We’re not all the same. He was a little bit different but he was a wonderful guy,” said Schlossberg. “I can’t believe I’m saying this.”

“They seem to be very lovely people. They seem to have a very loving marriage. They were very wrapped up in each other,” said Baumgardt.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue units responded to a ShotSpotter alert along the 3400 block of Southwest Seventh Avenue, Saturday evening, but when they arrived, they couldn’t locate a victim.

Moments later, authorities received a call about a teen who had been shot in her shoulder in the area of Northwest 11th Avenue, between 27th and 28th streets.

Detectives said the victim walked a few blocks away from where the incident happen before calling them.

Once found, the teen was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital Ryder Trauma Center. Her condition is unclear, but paramedics note that she was alert and conscious when transported.

Details on a shooter remains limited as of Sunday afternoon.

Police confirmed a second teen was also grazed by a bullet at the same initial location. Their condition is also unknown.

Details surrounding that shooting remains unclear, as authorities continue to investigate.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the blaze at Teiko Auto Sales, located near Northwest 20th Avenue and 139th Street, at around 9 p.m. on Thursday.

“Responding to an occupied store, unknown origin fire,” said a first responder in radio transmissions.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from a warehouse. Inside the structure, they found a vehicle that was fully engulfed in flames.

After a fire attack from a dozen firefighters, they were able to knock down the flames.

Paramedics transported the 43-year-old patient to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center with burns to his hands, arms and legs. His condition is unknown.

7News cameras captured the victim being wheeled into the hospital with bandaged hands and legs.

Friday morning, Brandon Petit told 7News he has a car at the shop.

“I go, ‘I hope my car is OK,'” he said.

Petit told 7News the victim is the owner of the shop and a friend of his. He was seen opening the warehouse.

Petit was relieved to find his vehicle that was consumed by the flames was not his.

“The car was burned, they had the remnants in there, and that’s it,” he said.

But Petit is now worried about his friend.

“I saw the burn on it, too, and I hope my buddy’s OK, too,” he said.

A drone camera captured damage on the roof of the business. A view from the ground shows the warehouse’s door comepletely charred, as well as piles of soot and ash outside.

People in the area said the victim suffered burns up to his elbow and all over his legs, as he continues to recover in the hospital.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The shop has yet to reopen.

7News cameras captured Brown, seen wearing a black and light turquoise green jacket, as he walked out of the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in West Miami-Dade, at around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday.

The 37-year-old was greeted by his attorney, Mark Eiglarsh, who embraced his client, and together they walked down toward reporters.

Brown, who posted a $25,000 bond, declined to address his Oct. 2 arrest in Dubai earlier this fall or the second-degree attempted murder charge he faces. Instead, the former football star made a beeline for a nearby food truck, where he ordered a conch salad.

His lawyer, however, did speak with reporters about all the days his client has spent in and out of jail.

“We’re extremely grateful that he’s out after over 40 days of incarceration,” said Eiglarsh. “He’s extremely eager to rejoin his family, who he loves dearly.”

Brown’s release comes a day after he stood before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy S. Glazer.

“You were arrested pursuant to an arrest warrant charging you with one count of attempted second-degree murder with a firearm.” said Glazer.

Brown later left in Eiglarsh’s car.

Brown’s arrest stems from a tense May 16 confrontation outside of an underground boxing match in Miami‘s Little Haiti neighborhood hosted by streamer Adin Ross.

Brown is accused of grabbing a security guard’s handgun and firing two shots at a man with whom he had gotten into a fistfight with earlier that night. That man told police he was grazed by a bullet.

Brown then flew to Dubai before he was extradited to the U.S.

“He didn’t flee to Dubai; he has business in Dubai,” Eiglarsh told Glazer during Wednesday’s bond hearing.

But Miami Police Officer Michael Vega said videos Brown posted on social media appeared to tell a different story.

“He was posting videos, riding a bike, kind of like laughing at the City of Miami,” said Vega. “‘Hey, hey, I’m in Dubai.’ Maybe he thought that we couldn’t extradite from there.”

Jail records in Essex County, New Jersey, show Brown was released on Tuesday for his transfer to South Florida. 

In court Wednesday Glazer ordered Brown to wear a GPS ankle monitor and remain under house arrest at his Broward County home as he awaits trial. He was also issued a stay away order from the victim in the May shooting.

Brown faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000 if he is convicted.

7News cameras on Thursday morning captured long lines at Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport that were nevertheless moving briskly.

After 44 days, the nation’s longest government shutdown is over, but flyers at MIA are still on edge. They run the gamut between those whose flights were canceled to those whose itineraries weren’t impacted at all.

“We should be getting in around noon, so hopefully, no hiccups there,” said traveler Mandi Morioka.

Traveler Margee Clifford said she’s heading to Alaska.

“I’m traveling back from being overseas, and it feels much riskier to be here in the United States,” she said.

Government officials warn travelers planning to catch flights in the coming days that they may still have a bumpy ride ahead.

“I’m concerned that we’re not going to have, on day one, controllers come back into the towers right away,” said Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy.

Since the Federal Aviation Administration started canceling flights due to air traffic control shortages, officials said, more than 10,000 flights have been cut nationwide.

The FAA anticipated canceling 10% of flights nationwide by the end of the week, but on Wednesday they said that because air traffic controllers are coming back to work, they’ll only be forced to cancel 6%.

“We’re trying to manage risk in the system to make sure people fly and fly safely,” said Duffy.

And flying they are.

“This is my second out of five flights,” said Clifford.

Clifford said her voyage has been smooth sailing so far, but she’s always prepared for the worst.

“I travel with a collapsible tea kettle and food, in case I get delayed or stranded somewhere,” she said.

But not everyone has been so fortunate. Librata Modesto said a loved ones’s flight out of MIA was canceled.

“We are heading to Fort Lauderdale Airport to leave him, so he is going to have to sleep over in the airport again,” said Modesto.

Other travelers, however, remain optimistic despite delays and cancellations — like a group of South Floridians flying to Madrid to watch the Miami Dolphins face off against the Washington Commanders.

“We thought the plane was delayed a couple of hours. It turns out, it looks like it’s on time,” said traveler Mary Howard.

“No delays up to now, so fingers crossed,” said traveler Michael Jenkins.

These travelers said they refuse to let any airline chaos get in their way.

“It’s not going to be canceled. We’re going to Madrid to watch the Dolphins win. That’s what’s happening,” said traveler Ron Howard.

Meanwhile, Morioka joined her teammates of Florida International University’s women’s volleyball team as they made their way through security. She said delays or cancellations aren’t an option for them on Thursday.

“We have some games to play this weekend, so hopefully we’re on time,” said Morioka.

Now, with less than two weeks until the Thanksgiving travel rush, Morioka said that optimism is a bit more fleeting.

“Especially with, like, the holidays coming up, people want to be with their families, and so, if the airports aren’t working the way they’re supposed, then, you know, it’s tough,” she said.

But government officials said flyers should expect things to normalize once safety measures improve and air traffic controllers return to work,

“What’s really important for us is getting back to business, and what I mean by that is Thanksgiving is coming up. It’s go time for us,” said FAA Acting Chief Operating Officer Frank McIntosh.

However, it still remains unclear how long it will take until all air travel normalizes.

7News cameras captured about a dozen of Jaramillo’s brothers and sisters in blue lining up in front of the growing memorial, leaving flowers and American flags in the very spot where, investigators said, the 27-year-old was shot and killed on Friday afternoon.

“Officers and first responders never forget. It tapers off, and you deal with life and you function, but you never forget it,” said J.C. Prellezo, a retired MDSO deputy.

“He was a son. He was a brother, but he’s also a homegrown hero. Nothing but the best of words were ever used when it came to describing who he was,” said MDSO Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz on Saturday.

Seeing the memorial hit especially hard for Lionel and Alma Espinoza, retired Miami-Dade officers who know Jaramillo’s family.

“It’s incredible,” Lionel said about the touching tribute. “It’s just terrible. To lose such a young gentleman, a young deputy, I mean, he had his whole life ahead of him.”

“It has killed me the way that this young man has lost his life the way he lost it,” said Alma. “Such a young man, a wonderful young man.”

Residents also passed by to pay their respects.

“He was an officer. He was keeping us all safe, and for this to happen in just really hard,” said area resident Cristina Falconi.

On Monday, MDSO parked his patrol car at the agency’s Kendall station, located at 7707 SW 117th Ave., so the public could visit and pay their respects.

“This is so sad and my prayers to the family,” said a woman.

“I work down the street and it’s awful. It’s very sad,” said a man. “It affects us man. It’s heartbreaking.”

According to officials, Jaramillo was shot and killed while responding to a traffic crash near Southwest 128th Street and 122nd Avenue.

“He encountered the subject who was part of the traffic crash case. There was a verbal dispute that ensued,” said Cordero-Stutz.

Cordero-Stutz was visibly shaken as she provided new details into the fatal shooting and identified the shooter as 21-year-old Steven Rustrian.

Deputies said Jaramillo and Rustrian began fighting after the deputy responded to the scene of the crash involving the suspect.

“And during that fight, he disarmed our deputy of his own service weapon and used it to shoot him multiple times,” said Cordero-Stutz. “The subject, after shooting our deputy, entered his own vehicle and took his own life.”

Despite the medical team’s best efforts at HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, Jaramillo succumbed to his injuries.

The sudden and senseless shooting has left many in the community trying to understand why it happened.

“He just attacked him,” said Alma. “It’s just why. That’s the big question, why?”

“You go out and you put your badge on. You’re hoping every day you come back,” said Lionel. “Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price, he paid by his life. Too young.”

On Saturday morning, Jaramillo’s body, in a casket draped with the American flag, was wheeled into a Miami funeral home as he was flanked by fellow law enforcement officers.

As the memorial for that fallen deputy continues to grow, Cordero-Stutz called on the community to pray for the fallen deputy who loved them deeply and protected them fiercely.

“This will never be OK, and I ask our community to continue to hold us in your prayers, because we need them,” she said.

“This is very difficult for all of us. Not just for me, for the family, for the friends who know him, everyone,” said Lionel.

Tributes for the fallen deputy continue to pour in from local, state and federal officials, as well as other law enforcement agencies.

Officials have not released any funeral service details for Jaramillo.

According to Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero Stutz, Jaramillo, 27, responded to a reported traffic crash near a warehouse by Southwest 128th Street and 122nd Avenue when an argument broke out between him and the subject.

During the confrontation, the subject fought with Jaramillo, took his firearm and shot him.

Jaramillo was rushed to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

The sheriff said the gunman then got into his own car and took his own life.

“There are no words to fully express the sadness, the pain and the grief that I and my law enforcement partners all feel as we all confront the reality of Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Deputy Devin Jaramillo murder,” Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said in a statement Saturday.

On Saturday afternoon, Cordero Stutz provided new details into the incident, including identifying the man who took his own life and shot Jaramillo as 21-year-old Steven David Rustrian.

“He encountered the subject, who was part of the traffic crash case and there was a verbal dispute that ensued and during that fight, he disarmed our deputy of his own service weapon and used it to shoot him multiple times,” said the sheriff.

The revelation came hours after Jaramillo’s body, in a casket draped with the American flag, was wheeled into a Miami funeral home as he was flanked by his brothers and sisters in blue.

“He was a helper, a supporter. Nothing but the best of words were ever used when it came to describing who he was,” said Cordero Stutz.

Jaramillo, who joined the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office in 2024 after serving with the Coral Gables Police Department, was described as having an unwavering commitment to protect others.. He earned Coral Gables Police Department’s “Officer of the Month” award in July 2023.

“Deputy Jaramillo served our community with honor, courage, and a deep commitment to protecting others as is clear from his efforts to render assistance at what appeared to be a traffic accident.  His concern about protecting others led to the taking of his life,” Fernandez Rundle said.  “Deputy Jaramillo’s killing is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by every individual who wears the badge and the sacrifices these officers make to protect this community.  His family is in my prayers.”

A Miami native, Jaramillo graduated from Miami Killian Senior High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Florida. He followed in his father’s footsteps, as his father is a retired police officer.

“Devin was an amazing officer. He could’ve done anything with his professional career, but he chose public service and he chose to do it in this community, to serve us, and he gave the ultimate price in his service,” said Cordero Stutz. “He’s what we called a legacy kid cause his father was on the job for so many years.”

After his death Friday, a solemn procession escorted Jaramillo’s body from the hospital to the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Fire trucks hoisted an American flag over Northwest 10th Avenue as officers from across South Florida gathered to honor him.

One subject, whose identity has not yet been released, is reportedly deceased and another was detained after a brief search for them. It’s unclear how they were involved in the shooting.

As the investigation continues, officers from across South Florida will shoulder the pain of losing one of their own.

“The next few days are going to be very difficult to us, and we will continue to make this county safe,” said Cordero Stutz.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and State Attorney’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Two-hundred and fifty students from across Miami-Dade Public Schools spent part of their Friday touring the Freedom Tower.

The downtown Miami landmark reopened its doors in September to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Participating students were commemorating what they called another important day: Victims of Communism Memorial Day.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, took the podium Friday afternoon to address the students from schools like American Senior High School and Barbara Goleman Senior High School, on a day that, representatives said, is aimed at honoring the more than 100 million people who have suffered under communist regimes around the world.

Many people with firsthand experience under communism flocked to the Freedom Tower on Friday, including those who took Peter Pan flights to the U.S.

Among those who toured the 17-story landmark were children of parents who fled communist regimes, as well as elected officials.

The Freedom Tower, often referred to as a beacon of hope, served as historic refuge point for hundreds of thousands of Cubans who fled the Castro regime.

Speakers on Friday said they hope that by teaching these students about those who have suffered under communism, they’ll begin to understand the importance of liberty and freedom.

“We’re probably the only state in the country that has a day to commemorate the victims of communism, and it’s a great opportunity for young people to both appreciate the American founding principles and then to see how communism, how Marxism-Leninism is totally at war with the ideals that our Founding Fathers instituted,” said DeSantis.

In order to commemorate the day, students all across Miami-Dade received a 45-minute lesson about the history of communism.

The local marching band will take part in a global gig: Rome’s New Year’s Day parade in 2027.

Students stood shocked as they learned about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I was very excited, I was super shocked. I’m super excited for next year, seeing what we’re gonna be able to do,” said percussion player Jayden Guo.

The Roman parade, an annual event that draws about 250,000 people annually, will take place Jan. 1, 2027.

“They’re going to come on for the parade on the first of January 2027, which will be the 20th anniversary of the Rome parade, or Rome New Year,” said Bob Bone, Founder of Rome, New York.

Bone invited the marching band to fly to Europe and take part in what he thinks is the most fantastic celebratory event in the Eternal City.

“There are around 38 different acts in the Roman parade, and about half of them are bands. Of that half that are bands, that’s 19, around eight to 10 are invited from the United States of America, so it’s quite something to get an invitation to come for this event,” he said.

When asked why the Parkland school was chosen, Bone said there’s a bit of history with it, as international crowds tend to love their past performances.

“They came to London three or four years ago now, to perform in what we then used to call the greatest event in the greatest city in the world. I think it’s been supplanted by Rome now. But anyway, they came and they performed so well. I mean, they were absolutely fantastic,” said Bone.

As the organization started looking for bands to attend the historic event, it was a no-brainer to select Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

He said the students’ experience will be fantastic.

“I think it’s a life-changing experience for them, I mean, who wouldn’t want to be in the Eternal City that is Rome?” said Bone. “It’s gonna be partially educational, I suppose, but it’s also going to be great fun.”

Students said they were excited for the extraordinary opportunity.

“I am thrilled, I’m so grateful, I’ve never been out of the country, so I’m excited to go somewhere I’ve never been, just experience like everything that’s completely different from like everything I’ve ever known,” said student Angelina Currea.

“This program has made it really far ever since London, and we’ve made great achievements over time, and now we’re going to Rome,” said Guo.

In more good news, the band at West Broward High has also been invited to perform in London’s 2027 New Year’s Day Parade.

7News cameras captured heavy flames and smoke billowing from the house, located near Southwest 49th Avenue and 80th Street in the Ponce-Davis neighborhood, just before 6 a.m. on Thursday, as well as several Miami-Dade Fire Rescue trucks.

“Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded with over 20 units, including a hazardous materials response,” said MDFR Battalion Chief Victoria Byrd.

According to fire officials, the blaze sparked at around 4:30 a.m.

“A single family home. We’ve got fire in the back,” a first responder is heard saying in radio transmissions.

Firefighters initially appeared to focus on the garage before the flames spread across the one-acre property. Adding to the challenge of combating the two-alarm blaze is that the residence is surrounded by trees, and there is another home right behind it.

“We found fire that was as tall as the trees. Our units came in, did an excellent job,” said Byrd.

Cameras captured the moment Spoelstra arrived on the property at around 5:10 a.m, looking distraught as he watched his five-bedroom, six-bath home engulfed in flames. The coach was in Denver Wednesday night, where the Heat played against the Nuggets and lost 122-112.

Officials said crews could only get their trucks into the property through the front, so they mainly tried to fight the flames from above using ladders.

“We used multiple aerial apparatuses, fire engines and rescues to help combat this incident,” said Byrd. “Due to the privacy wall and a lot of the tree cover, it was very difficult to access, with only one point of entry.”

7’s Drone Force captured the devastating aftermath. Almost the entire home had collapsed to the ground.

Exhausted firefighters took turns trying to douse the flames from multiple angles, taking breaks when they could.

“The men and women from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue were able to extinguish this fire and do the best job that they could,” said Byrd.

At around noon, firefighters were seen putting away their ladders and equipment.

Red caution tape was wrapped across the entrance of the home and part of the home’s roof had collapsed.

Neighbors told 7News that the home had been undergoing extensive renovations since Spoelstra moved into the property in 2023.

The house boasted over 5,700 square feet of living space covered by a canopy of trees and was purchased for $6.6 million. The property features an impressive backyard, swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, tennis courts and plenty of space to entertain.

Two weeks ago, Spoelstra invited the whole team over to his home for a barbecue as they kick-started the new NBA season. Video posted to Instagram showed players engoing a game of soccer in the backyard and cooking on the grill.

Now the house is a total loss, but officials said crews were able to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring homes.

Officials said no one was injured, adding the home was unoccupied at the time the fire started, as they continue to investigate.

The Miami Heat released a statement on Thursday evening, saying they are grateful no one was hurt and their thoughts and prayers are with the coach and his family.

The Heat will play the Hornets at the Kaseya Center on Friday night. Spoelstra is expected to hold his usual pre-game media availability and also attend the game.

According to court records, 34-year-old Passha Davis appeared before a judge Wednesday morning, where her bond was set at $100,000.

Gabrielle’s family believes Davis may know the little girl’s whereabouts but has not given authorities any information.

“Am I to understand allegedly she doesn’t know where the child is?” the judge asked.

“Your honor, what’s understood is she hasn’t said anything. It’s not known if that’s actually accurate,” said the prosecution. “She hasn’t given any piece of information, but the last time she saw the child, anything.”

She was ordered to wear an ankle monitor and undergo a mental health evaluation.

The FBI Miami Field Office, Margate Police Department and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement said Gabrielle remains missing and at risk.

Investigators said Gabrielle was last seen on June 21 in Broward County but was not reported missing until Oct. 29, after authorities discovered her mother had been incarcerated in Florida, accused of shoplifting from a Dollar Tree in Margate.

Her disappearance was upgraded to a Missing Child Alert earlier this week.

Gabrielle is described as a Black female, about 4 feet 8 inches tall, weighing 100 pounds, with shoulder-length black hair.

She was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, black long pants and white Crocs.

Authorities said Gabrielle is known to travel between Central and South Florida with family members and may have been with Davis before her arrest.

Gabrielle’s aunt, who did not want to be identified, said she has been fighting to take Gabrielle into her home because the girl and her mother had been living on the streets.

“We don’t have any clue where she is. I mean it would have been better if they even didn’t want to give her to me they could have taken her and put her in foster care, but there was more than enough family members that were willing to take her but nobody was willing to help to do the right thing,” the girl’s aunt said. “Her family loves her and we are looking for her and would like her to return safely and would like her to come and be with us away from harm.”

Gabrielle’s aunt said the last time she saw her was last year.

“Gabby, she liked being indoors. She said she was tired of walking around on the street and she told her mom she wants to stay,” her aunt said.

With Gabrielle’s mother remaining behind bars and authorities having very few hints on the girl’s whereabouts, her family is struggling to remain hopeful but have a message they hope reaches the lost child.

“Her family loves her and that we’re looking for her and she knows that her aunt loves her,” her aunt said. “My worst fear is that Gabrielle is not alive.”

Davis now faces child neglect charges.

Anyone with information about Gabrielle’s whereabouts is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov, or call the Margate Police Department at 954-972-7111 or 911.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene of the incident near Southwest 192nd Street and 113th Place on Saturday night.

Officials said the victim was walking in the neighborhood to grab dinner when he was shot in the hand by crossfire.

“A male victim, juvenile, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to his right hand,” said MDSO Deputy Joseph Peguero. “The victim began to run, seeking for help, and a good Samaritan was able to make contact with the victim.”

The good Samaritan was able to help the victim until deputies arrived.

Those in the neighborhood were shocked to hear what had occurred.

“The shots stopped for a few seconds, and they started again. That’s when we realized it was gunshots, so we grabbed the kids, we ran inside the house,” said area resident Yunior Diaz.

Another neighbor said his grandmother’s car was left riddled with bullets following the shooting.

“They were shooting down this way. On the front part here by the door and it hit the window back here as well,” he said. “He could’ve really just lost his life just trying to get something to eat.”

Darell Collins, an anti-gun violence activist, said he and other residents are frustrated by the ongoing gun violence.

“This has been ongoing in this project right here, called The Square, and it needs to stop,” he said. “I know how it feels. ’cause I lost two kids to gun violence. You guys need to watch your kids very carefully, because these guns out here is just killing people.”

As of Monday morning, deputies said they do not have a subject in custody. They said the teen who was injured underwent surgery and is expected to be OK.

If you have any information on this shooting or the subject’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

7News cameras on Sunday captured loved ones as they stood In the same spot where, authorities said, Sahmari Cromer was stabbed to death just hours prior.

Cromer was later identified by his family, who provided photos of him to 7News.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, deputies found the victim suffering from multiple stab wounds outside of his home, located near the 1800 block of Northwest 70th Street in Northwest Miami-Dade, just after 4 a.m. on Sunday.

Paramedics with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue rushed Cromer to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where he was pronounced dead.

His family shared their pain as deputies continue to investigate his death.

“Somebody killed my son down there,” said Tawyana Vell, Sahmari’s mother.

Vell told 7News that her son struggled with his mental health, saying she and her husband were recently forced to Baker Act him.

“Two weeks ago, and when he got out, he was worse than when he went in,” she said. “He wouldn’t have been outside at no 4 o’clock in the morning.”

An effort they hoped would heal him, loved ones said, only seemed to make matters worse.

“You could see him trying to battle it,” said Vell.

“When he’s medicated, he’s good,” added Anthony Cromer, the victim’s father.

As crime scene investigators collected evidence amid clothing and a pool of blood, Sahmari’s father was left trying to make sense of it all.

“I really feel like this mental health thing, something has to be done,” he said.

The circumstances surrounding the stabbing remain under investigation.

Volunteers with the Global Empowerment Mission gathered in Doral on Friday to pack aid boxes filled with much-needed supplies to send to Caribbean islands such as Jamaica and Haiti.

“We’re always there, we’re always there to support the people and we don’t leave until the need is over,” said GEM Global Operations Vice President Jeff Popovich.

In partnership with Caribbean Strong, volunteers created kits packed with non-perishables and other supplies like shoes, clothing, soap, toothbrushes, electrolyte packets and other hygiene items.

“The entire nation is in a state of preparedness. We have to take these weather systems very seriously so we encourage people to stock up on nonperishable items,” said Consular General of Jamaica Oliver Mira.

Mira says the donated boxes has played a helping hand in the face of past natural disasters.

“GEM was actually one of the first on the ground within 36 hours. We had relief items on the ground supporting people in need,” he said.

The kits are headed to places potentially under Melissa’s threat such as Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Haiti.

The current forecast by the National Hurricane Center calls for heavy rainfall across the islands.

“Just these rainfall amounts alone are likely to produce significant, life threatening flash flooding and landslides, especially in these mountainous areas along the southern coast of Dominican Republic and Haiti and in portions of Jamaica as well,” said NHC Director Michael Brennan.

As the storm is set to roll in on these Caribbean islands, many of their locals are rolling out and headed to South Florida.

7News spoke to travelers at Miami International Airport who escaped Melissa’s threat.

“Just hunkering down and preparing,” said Cynthia Carin.

“They are telling everyone to take it serious, so I left family there and I sort of help prepared,” said traveler Maxine McCormack.

Carin said she was grateful for GEM’s supply kits that are headed to her fellow Jamaicans.

“Water because that’s a necessity and we always lose it when the power goes out,” she said.

Melissa is expected to become a major hurricane as early as Sunday.

GEM is opening their Doral doors to volunteers who want to help create kits on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

7Skyforce hovered above the scene of the crash near Northwest Sixth Street and 12th Avenue, near SLAM Miami Charter School, at around 9:45 a.m., Friday.

According to City of Miami Police, the victim was running late to school and ran through traffic to try to get to class when she was hit by the ambulance, just before 8 a.m.

“This young girl [was] crossing between two vehicles because the pedestrian crosswalk was blocked by vehicles,” said Miami Police Officer Michael Vega.

Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Pete Sanchez said the ambulance was going against traffic because they were transporting a patient.

“They were in emergency mode, which is lights and sirens, because they were taking a patient to the hospital,” he said. “They were heading northbound here on 12th Avenue, going against traffic because there was standstill traffic at this time, which is something normal that we do.”

One mother who was dropping off her child at school said she saw the whole thing.

“The little girl came out of nowhere,” said the parent, who identified herself as Hellen.

At the time of the crash, police said, the school bell had already sounded, so the crossing guards were no longer there.

“[The driver of the ambulance] tried to avoid her and maneuvered off to the side, as you can see, and they ended up hitting her, pushing her forward, which I believe that because of that evasive maneuver, they did not run her over, which is very important,” said Sanchez.

Witnesses echoed what officials said happened.

“She ran. I mean, the ambulance tried to swerve, but it was too late,” said Hellen.

“[The driver of the ambulance] tried everything possible not to hit that kid,” said a witness who identified herself as Rita. “I just pray she pulls through, and the driver, he was inconsolable.”

“Immediately, [the crew in the ambulance] began to render aid and called for additional resources to not only treat the 11-year-old female, but also the patient that was being transported to the hospital at that time,” said Sanchez.

“But at the moment, there was some time before the little girl reacted. There was no reaction, so we thought she was gone,” said Hellen.

Investigators said the child was alert and oriented during transport to Ryder Trauma Center. She is listed in serious but stable condition.

Back at the scene, 7News cameras showed one of the victim’s shoes thrown across the road, as well as the ambulance with front-end damage due to the impact.

Fire officials said they’re heartbroken about the whole situation.

“The driver of this rescue [vehicle] is extremely shaken up. This is not something that we plan on. We want to help people, not hurt people, so he’s extremely shaken up,” said Sanchez. “We’re working with him, and we care. We really hope that she’s going to be OK, and this is just a very unfortunate situation.”

Officers temporarily shut down Northwest 12th Avenue between Fourth and Seventh streets, but everything has since reopened.

A spokesperson for SLAM Miami Charter School confirmed the victim is a student at their school. They issued the following statement:

“Earlier this morning, a SLAM Miami student was involved in an accident while crossing the street near the school. The student was struck by a City of Miami ambulance. Emergency medical personnel responded immediately, and the student was transported to the hospital to receive medical care.

Our thoughts are with the student and their family during this difficult time. The school is in contact with the family and offering support. At this point, we are focused on the student’s well-being and are unable to share additional details.”

The fire department has brought special counselors to speak with the driver of the ambulance.

Speaking with 7News off camera, the teen’s parents said the man came in through their daughter’s bedroom window at their home on Northwest 10th Avenue and 48th Street, at around 4 a.m. on Monday.

“This man came into the house all dressed in black, had a ski mask on, so you couldn’t see the facial features,” said Miami Police Officer Michael Vega. “The young girl was sleeping, and we don’t know what his intentions were.”

The teen’s parents said their daughter woke up to see the strange man, and the subject ran out when her father came running over to the bedroom.

Police said the perpetrator left the victim’s home with her valuables.

Neighbors were left shaken by the home invasion.

“Something like that, it’s just – was like a shock to me, because I’ve been around here for 50 years, and that type of stuff doesn’t happen around here,” said an area resident.

“Thank God that nothing happened to this 13-year-old, but just imagine: You wake up, and there’s a stranger inside your house,” said Vega. “It’s scary, it’s alarming, and we’re on the case.

The girl’s mother told 7News that police found her wallet down the block, and she later tracked the phone using Find My iPhone. It wasn’t far away.

When the teen’s mother drove by, she said, she saw a man holding her daughter’s phone with a distinct silver phone case. She called 911 and took a picture.

“Hours later, they located the phone inside a trash bin. A person was detained but was not arrested,” said Vega.

This turn of events is frustrating for the teen’s family, but they have faith detectives will arrest the subject soon.

“This is a case where it’s going to be on latent prints, so we have processed the scene, we’ve processed the phone, we’ve processed the wallet to see if we get any fingerprints and we can match those to the offender,” said Vega.

Police hope this incident serves as another reminder for families to double check all of their windows and doors

“This is a perfect time to check your homes. Make sure that all your windows are locked and that your doors are locked,” said Vega.

An area resident told 7News that she has seen the man in the picture that the teen’s mother took walking in the neighborhood before.

If you have any information on this home invasion or the subject’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Video from inside Snoopy’s Smoke Shop off North Federal Highway shows a masked individual run up to one of the windows before smashing it and running off. Moments later, two individuals jump through the broken window, with one carrying a large container.

“We’re affected by this, our family’s affected by this, we’re running a business with a family, this is ridiculous,” the smoke shop’s owner said. “They can get away with this, they knew it and that’s what they’re doing.”

The store’s owner is left shaken after having her shop broken into for the second time in a week. Earlier this week, a trio broke into the store and made off with more than $1,000 in merchandise.

“This is our second time in a week,” she said. “I don’t know what the cops are doing, why the people here didn’t get caught yet.”

The shop’s security company alerted the owner to the break-in early Saturday morning.

After jumping through the store’s window, the burglars went through, swiping several things off the shelves, even the entire cash register.

“They took a lot of stuff. They took a bunch of vapes, our inventory from the back, our whole register, iPad, everything,” the owner said.

She wasn’t alone in having her smoke shop burglarized during the week.

Vapor Shark, located at 5514 West Sample Road in Margate, was broken into by a pair of burglars, Tuesday.

“They had bins, it looked like a bank heist. They came and knew exactly what they were doing. They looked like professionals,” Vapor Shark’s owner told 7News.

Within two miles and under an hour after Vapor Shark was broken into, another break-in happened at Sky World Smoke Shop on Royal Palm Boulevard and Rock Island Road less.

“You feel violated and it’s draining. It’s a lot of money that we lose,” Vapor Shark’s owner said.

Authorities have not determined if it was the same burglars that broke into all three smoke shops.

If you have any information on this crime, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Thousands are ready to rave as the festival returns to Miami for its 12th year.

“It feels like New Year’s Day,” said Chris Baptista, a festivalgoer.

“It’s truly nothing else like it,” said another festivalgoer.

The festival kicked off Friday afternoon and will continue through 4 a.m., Sunday morning. 7News cameras captured excited festivalgoers making the big line to enter.

“I didn’t know Dom Dolla was at 2:45 in the morning,” said Drew Rangel, who drove down from Orlando to attend.

“I’m pushing 30 here, so we’ll see how much, how far our bodies can take us,” said Rhiana Rangel, who drove down from Orlando.

Many ravers who spoke with 7News said they’re dedicated to the vibes and are far from intimidated by the late hours.

“I disagree with people that say that New York is the city that never sleeps ’cause they’ve never come to Miami,” said Sofia Sanchez.

“I plan on staying here the whole night,” said a festivalgoer.

With hundreds of artists scheduled to perform over the two-day event, thousands of fans are expected to travel from all over the country to attend, with each sharing the sentiment on experiencing the festival in Miami.

“The vibe that you get from just being here in Miami, it’s magnificent, it’s something completely different from anything I’ve ever seen and I’ve been to a lot of festivals,” said Jose Cordero.

Festival attendees won’t be the only ones in the crowd dedicated to ensuring they have a good time.

“I’m security, I’m making sure that everybody’s good and everyone’s having a great, fun time, safely, of course,” said Dorian Hothompson, who will be working as security for the event

III Points Music Festival will have extensive security measures in place, including Miami Police officers and paramedics stationed around the festival.

Officers advised all festivalgoers to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to 911.

Police say Northwest Sixth Avenue, between 21st Terrace and 26th Street, and Northwest 21st Terrace heading westbound, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues will remain closed for the festival until Sunday at 8 p.m.

Speaking to 7News on Friday, Oscar Contreras, family member of the victim, 20-year-old Cristian Contreras, said it has been a tough few months and the family has gotten few answers.

“From what we know, it was two shots. Those were the two shots that killed Kevin [Ramirez] and my brother Cristian,” he said.

Surrounded by photos of his late little brother, he said nobody can begin to heal until someone is held responsible for the murder.

“Someone knows what happened. Someone knows who did it, and they just don’t want to come out and say anything,” said Oscar.

The two victims, who were barbers and best friends, were found dead inside the apartment located on West 35th Way on July 29. Oscar says the family has been looking for updates from police, but two and a half months later, details remain limited.

“They have no lead. None of the cameras were working,” he said.

Oscar said his little brother was doing what he loved, working hard and building a name for himself in the barber business, when his life was cut short.

“He was just pursuing his dream, he wasn’t messing with no one,” he said. “I notice to this day how much people supported my brother. He was impacting peoples lives through a machine, through clippers.”

He also says the motive behind the killings remains a mystery.

“We don’t want to let this case die down,” said Oscar.

This past Monday, the family gathered for what would have been Cristian’s 21st birthday at the site of his final resting place.

They’ve since started an Instagram page in an effort to get help from the community and justice for Cristian.

“Someone has to know something in that complex,” said Oscar. “That’s the hard part right now. We know that people know something, but they are just not speaking.”

He wants someone to be caught before another person is killed.

“We’ve got to get these people off the streets because it could happen to someone else,” he said.

If you have any information on this crime, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Those who attended wore white and blue to the somber, but celebratory event at the Waterways Shoppes on Thursday night.

“God bless the USA, God bless the City of Aventura and God bless Israel,” said Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg.

Local organizations also participated in the community event to praise the homecoming of the hostages.

“What a relief, what a relief that we can celebrate after two years of national torture,” said Miri Ketayi, Regional Director of Israel American Council South Florida.

Natalie Kaswan with Loving Moms United helped organize the event coined “They Are Home Now.” She called it a night to feel, dance, celebrate and honor each and every hostage.

“We need to mourn, but at the same time we need to celebrate,” said Kaswan. “We are grateful for each one of them. We have prayed for them. We know them as family because we are a big family.”

As those in Aventura rejoiced, they leaned on one another for support too as they say they’re still awaiting the returns of the bodies of nearly 20 more deceased hostages.

“And we are still waiting for the ones that are dead because each body for us is sacred,” said Kaswan.

7News cameras captured eventgoers dancing and enjoying themselves.

The Israeli Consul of Miami also attended the emotional ceremony. Deputy Consul General of Israel Ayellet Black watched her community band together in a long-awaited moment of celebration.

“We all beat with one heart and the tragedy that happened in Israel affected everyone here so deeply,” she said. “it’s incredible. It’s hard to put into words what this feels like after two long years.”

Throughout the event, attendees sang, danced, laughed and cried as a sign of relief after two very long years.

Still, they say they remember the deceased hostages that remain in Gaza. The Israeli flag blew proudly in the wind with pictures of deceased hostages rooted to the bottom of it.

“We remember those who are still in Gaza and we remember them and we will fight them alive or not,” said Ketayi.

As of Thursday night, a handful of bodies of the deceased hostages have returned, but many more remain as part of the ceasefire agreement.

Surveillance video captured the moments after Dwight Wells came under fire along the 5000 block of Northwest 17th Avenue, just before 9:20 p.m. on Friday.

According to City of Miami Police, a masked man approached Wells during a game of dominoes and opened fire, striking the 40-year-old multiple times before he fled on foot.

The security footage shows people running for cover in the wake of the gunfire and Wells collapsing.

“I looked up and I just seen smoke in my face,” said Wells’ girlfriend Lulu, who was next to him when the shooting happened. “Basically his target was Streamer.”

Streamer was Wells’ nickname. Lulu believes this wasn’t a random shooting but doesn’t understand the reason behind it.

“He didn’t deserve it, we all know that,” she said. “He was a good person.”

Paramedics transported Wells to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Friday night’s killing left a community in mourning and triggered a search for the gunman responsible.

On Sunday, his mother, Mary Brown, spoke with 7News outside of her son’s restaurant.

“I was so proud of him. He was a son that a mother needed,” she said.

Brown said Wells may be gone, but his legacy is vast.

“The kindness he shared — to the elderly people, to the little children, to the adults, to the adolescents, the way he fed the homeless. My son was a God child,” she said.

Family members said business owner was just one of his contributions to a community for which he cared deeply.

“He really helped a lot of kids, changed their lives as far as, you know, turning their lives around in the community,” said Wells’ sister, Tina Lafrance. “He was a community activist; he was all about bikes up and guns down.”

Wells was widely known for leading “Bikes up, Guns Down,” a community initiative that, family members said, was aimed at helping young people pedal toward peace in an effort to end gun violence.

“We started up with the kids on their bikes, you know, doing tricks, and I’d seen that bikes was always a part of our culture,” Wells told 7News in a 2017 interview. “Keeping the guns out of their hands was our main objective, and that’s what we’re all about.”

7News captured moments when Wells was seen comforting families who had lost loved ones to gun violence over the years.

“It’s blood being shed on this land!” he said during a community gathering.

Brown pointed out the irony of the cause to which, she said, her son dedicated his life was the same one that ended it.

“They used what he believed in against him,” she said, “But it’s well, it’s all right. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

Brown believes the best way to honor his memory is for someone to continue his work.

“We just takin’ it one day at a time, we’re changing lives one day at a time,” said Wells.

Now, community members and local students are visiting a growing memorial outside of his restaurant to pay their respects.

“I wanted to educated them [students] on his legacy. He was trying to make a great impact for the community to put down senseless gun violence ,” said Director of Masterminds Academy Kierstan Sapp.

A balloon release will be held outside of Wells’ restaurant Monday night.

No arrests have been made in this case.

Wells’ family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with expenses. If you would like to make a donation, click here.

If you have any information on this shooting or the subject’s whereabouts, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

Thirty-eight-year-old Alan Henry Triana was booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. He is facing several charges, including harassing a witness involved in a capital felony, attempting to tamper with physical evidence, possession of armor-piercing ammunition and resisting officers without violence.

During Alan’s court appearance Friday, Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Maria Espinosa Dennis said the suspect can’t possess any weapons.

“You cannot have any weapons whatsoever, which includes firearms, includes knives, any weapons whatsoever. Do you understand that?” she said.

Alan nodded to the judge.

Detectives said Alan’s brother, 27-year-old Mason Triana, opened fire on a male and female officer near Northwest 26th Street and 15th Avenue, in the Allapattah neighborhood, at around 7:45 a.m. on Thursday.

Police said the chaotic chain of events started with a fight between the brothers.

“It all started with some sort of episode this morning,” said Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales during a news conference.

Detectives said officers found Mason’s abandoned car in the middle of the road near his home. The officers called a tow truck and left.

Moments later, they received a ShotSpotter alert for the same location.

“Upon arrival, they see a vehicle that is riddled with bullets, and immediately they begin to receive shots,” said Morales.

Chilling surveillance video from across the street captured the sound of gunfire, as officers and area residents ran for cover.

Altagracia Rebull told 7News in Spanish she’s lucky to be alive after stray bullets pierced the front window of her home.

Police said Mason fired at the six responding officers with an assault rifle, striking two of them in the ankle and knee.

Fellow police officers drove the victims to Ryder Trauma Center to be treated for their injuries.

7News cameras captured the female police officer, a 17-year veteran with the force, as she hobbled through the entrance to the hospital.

The male victim, a sergeant, arrived at the hospital moments before. The patients’ arrival at Ryder sparked a sizable display of support from other officers.

Back at the scene of the shooting, Mason barricaded himself inside his home, as SWAT teams swarmed, locking down the neighborhood.

At one point, the gunman is seen waving from behind a gate.

“The shooter came out and engaged the officers, it was an exchange of gunfire,” said Morales.

Investigators said Alan returned to the scene of the SWAT standoff involving his brother to surrender himself to police. At that point, he was considered a witness, not a suspect.

Just before 11 a.m., tactical units deployed a drone inside the residence.

“The offender and shooter in this incident appeared to be down. We don’t know if it was our exchange of gunfire or if it was self-inflicted at this time,” said Morales.

Friday morning, 7News captured a Miami Police cruiser parked outside the home where the standoff took place.

Police said Alan was released following his interview with detectives. Some time later, police tried to track him down to question him about a rifle used in the shooting earlier in the day.

Detectives said they eventually made contact with Alan, and at that point, he shouted at them, and that’s when they noticed he was holding a white bag with a rifle hanging out of it. He was then placed under arrest.

The injured female officer underwent surgery and was released from the hospital. As of Saturday night, the male sergeant is still being treated there. A third officer also suffered broken fingers while responding to the shooting, but is expected to be OK.

Alan has posted the $57,000 bond set by the judge and will be placed under house arrest once he is fitted with with an ankle monitor. He is expected to be released from jail as early as Sunday.