Brian King Joseph was hired as a violinist for Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025” tour.

In a lawsuit, Joseph alleges sexual harassment, wrongful termination and retaliation.

Joseph said the ordeal caused emotional distress and economic loss.

The network pulled the plug on MTV Live, MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s and Club MTV. They ceased to broadcast after Wednesday, according to BBC News.

The last music video played on all of them was “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles — the same video that kicked off MTV when it first hit the airwaves on Aug. 1, 1981.

The music channel is still being aired in the U.S. However, they recently canceled the popular shows “Catfish” and “Ridiculousness.”

Those three boys known by friends and family fondly as the Three Musketeers, were killed in a crash along the 1600 block of North Federal Highway in Pompano Beach, Monday night.

The crash took place on a very busy stretch of Federal Highway, where many people witnessed the tragedy and called for help.

“Hurry up!” a caller told the 911 dispatcher

“How many vehicles?” said the dispatcher.

“Ma’am, it is bad. Oh, my God, ma’am,” said the caller.

“Sir, tell me exactly what happened,” said the dispatcher

“Oh, my God, is anybody in the backseat? Yes, there is,” said the caller.

Investigators said 18-year-old Richard Alcocer was driving in the car with his cousin, 16-year-old Miguel Montez, and their friend, 15-year-old Ruben Baltazar, known by loved ones as Junior.

Witness Jerry Garcia described what he saw.

“The white car in particular was flying by to try and make the light. The light was already yellow turning to red, and he flew by,” said Jerry.

The victims’ BMW hit another car before hitting a concrete pole and a bus stop.

First responders worked quickly to pull the boys from the wreck, bit their woulds were too severe. They were transported to Broward Health North, where they were pronounced dead.

Tuesday night, 7News cameras captured a small makeshift memorial at the scene of the crash.

“This is – it’s a real sad situation,” said Williamson Joseph, a friend of the victims.

“We wanted to come out here and show love and support,” said another friend of the victims.

“I don’t kow what to say. I’m speechless. It just hurts,” said a third friend.

“They were like the Three Musketeers, always together, every day, always together,” said Juan Alcocer, Richard’s older brother.

“Junior, he was a respectful child, Miguel, he was a funny kid, and Richard, he was fun to hang around with,” said Joseph. They sure was joyful, you feel me? They spread good around them.”

The crash remains under investigation.

The prime minister spent Wednesday morning meeting with evangelical leaders at his hotel before heading to the Shul of Bal Harbour, located at 9540 Collins Ave., to attend the event.

Netanyahu met with lawmakers, Jewish and community leaders, and local students at the event.

As a result, Collins Avenue was closed to vehicular and foot traffic between 93rd and 96th streets, with nearby streets also facing impacts, Surfside officials said.

Street parking was already off limits at 6 a.m., as police prepared to shut down the roadway; those closures began at around 10 a.m.

In preparation for the road closure, Surfside officials said, trucks started to be turned around by 86th and 87th streets at around 8 a.m.

7Skyforce hovered above bumper-to-bumper traffic along Collins Avenue near the synagogue, late Wednesday morning. Cars were forced to turn around as the roadway remained closed.

Some passersby who spoke with 7News were happy with Netanyahu’s appearance.

“Very excited to see, very nice to see him out and about this morning,” said Ben Garner. “A very exciting New Year’s Eve.”

“It is wonderful, it’s unbelievable, it’s a dream, and it seems like it’s going to be better for Israel ad better for Hamas,” said a man.

Some residents were not as happy to see the prime minister, as a group of pro Palestine supporters gathered to protest against Netanyahu.

Deputies broke up a small confrontation that broke out between demonstrators and supporters.

The high-profile visit comes just days after Netanyahu’s meeting with President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, which has since been characterized as a strong display of unity.

“There’s very little difference in what we’re looking at and where we want to be, where we want to go,” Trump said Monday.

During that meeting, the president vowed to rebuild Gaza “as quickly as we can,” but only if Hamas disarms.

“They’re going to be given a very short period of time to disarm, but if they don’t disarm — as they agreed to do, they agreed to it — then there’ll be hell to pay, for them, and we don’t want that,” said Trump.

Israeli officials maintained they won’t withdraw more troops from Gaza until Hamas demobilizes.

Trump pushed back when asked whether Netanyahu is stalling.

“Israel’s lived up to the plan, 100%,” he said.

Israeli media reported that Netanyahu is expected to fly back to Israel Thursday afternoon.

The roads around Surfside have since been reopened.

According to the Margate Police Department, Alina Shellenberger was last seen by family members inside her home along the 6100 block of Royal Palm Boulevard, at around 9:30 p.m. on Monday.

Shellenberger stands 4 feet, 4 inches tall, weighs around 100 pounds, and has long dark red hair and brown eyes. She was seen wearing a hoodie at the time of her disappearance.

Detectives said the teen meets the criteria for a missing endangered juvenile.

Officials urge anyone with information about Shellenberger’s whereabouts to contact Margate Police at 954-972-7111.

Speaking with 7News on Tuesday, Juan Alcocer said the victims in Monday evening’s crash were his little brother, his cousin and a family friend.

“I didn’t believe it. I didn’t want to believe it,” he said.

Late Tuesday morning, Alcocer visited the spot along the 1600 block of North Federal Highway where, the Broward Sheriff’s Office said, the victims were killed.

“It’s unbelievable still, still trying to cope with it, you know,” he said. “Devastating, right now, it’s unbelievable.”

“It’s just, it’s a real sad situation,” said a family friend. “We really wanted to come out here to show respect and support.”

Alcocer identified the victims as his 18-year-old younger brother, Richard Manuel Alcocer; their 16-year-old cousin, Miguel Montes; and their 15-year-old family friend, Ruben Balthazar, known to loved ones as Junior.

“They were like the Three Musketeers, always together, every day, always together,” said Alcocer.

“I just came here to see how it happened, for real. They sure was joyful, you feel me? They spread good around them,” said Williamson Joseph, a friend of the victims. “Junior, he was a respectful child, Miguel, he was a funny kid, and Richard, he was fun to hang around with.”

A cousin of the victims, Maria Gonzales, also spoke out on her family’s loss.

“Three Musketeers, like they always hanged out together, every day; that’s why they named them the Three Musketeers,” she said. “They’re all gonna be missed.”

Investigators said the victims’ white BMW lost control and crashed into a bus stop and concrete pole.

Witnesses Jessica and Jerry Garcia described what they saw.

“The white car in particular was flying by to try and make the light. The light was already yellow turning to red, and he flew by,” said Jerry.

Deputies said the white car collided with another car before crashing into the light pole and the bus stop.

“So loud, it was so loud, like we’ve just – we’ve been shaking.” said Jessica.

Cellphone video captured first responders as they worked quickly to remove the three victims from the vehicle as nearby drivers watched in fear.

Paramedics rushed the patients to Broward Health North.

“Sadly, all three were pronounced deceased,” said BSO spokesperson Carey Codd. “To have three young people die in a crash like this, it absolutely breaks your heart.”

Alcocer said their families found out about the crash because the mother of one of the victims got an alert on her phone.

“It notified her that her son, they were going super fast. All of a sudden, it stopped, and it stayed there for quite some time,” he said. “And they tried calling. No pickup, nothing.”

The crash left the bus stop torn apart and the light pole on its side, with shattered glass thrown about the sidewalk.

“We have teenage boys, and so, for us, this is just so painful,” said Jessica.

Deputies shut down a portion of North Federal Highway for hours. Their investigation lasted well into the night.

“They are taking witness statements, gathering evidence, looking for video that will help them try and understand what led up to this tragedy,” said Codd.

Tuesday morning, crews removed the debris left behind.

Family members told 7News all three victims were students at Blanche Ely High School, with Richard having graduated this past spring.

Detectives stated that excessive speed from the driver of the sedan may have been a contributing factor in the crash, as they continue their investigation.

Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of a traffic crash along the 1600 block of North Federal Highway in Pompano Beach, at around 7 p.m. on Monday.

According to investigators, the victims — ages 15, 16 and 18 — were killed in the two-vehicle crash.

“One of those vehicles had crashed into a light pole and also impacted a bus stop,” said BSO spokesperson Carey Codd.

Deputies said all three victims were inside a white car when the crash occurred.

Witnesses Jessica and Jerry Garcia described what they saw.

“The white car in particular was flying by to try and make the light. The light was already yellow turning to red, and he flew by, at least in excess of 80 to 90 miles an hour. He was really flying fast,” said Jerry.

“We could feel it,” said Jessica. “So loud, it was so loud, like we’ve just – we’ve been shaking.”

“He was about to hit the car in the center lane. He swerved over the get away from it, hit the car in the left-hand outer lane,” said Jerry.

Another witness said the sound from the impact was deafening.

“I was actually at the light, about to make a left, and I heard the loud boom, which, automatically I had to just stop the car and try to get out to see if anyone – but, it was bad to the point where from what I saw, it was a bad accident,” he said. “Ran over, obviously I saw a lot of blood, don’t know who, or what happened, but I was just terrified.”

The crash left one of the vehicles involved facing the opposite direction, the bus stop torn apart, the concrete pole on its side and shattered glass across the sidewalk.

Cellphone video captured how massive the response was, as first responders descended upon the busy road. They worked quickly to pull the victims from the car.

“The deputies and paramedics immediately attempted to provide any type of lifesaving medical treatment that they could,” said Codd.

The cellphone video shows one of the victims being removed from the car and put on a stretcher.

“That sound that I heard, I didn’t think that someone would have survived that, to be honest,” said a witness.

“Three individuals inside the white car that hit the light pole and bus stop were transported to [Broward Health North]. Sadly, all three were pronounced deceased,” said Codd.

“My heart goes out to the families, you know, who’ve lost lives,” said a witness.

“We have teenage boys, and for us, this is just so painful,” said Jessica.

“It makes me feel sad and angry at the same time, because why?” said another witness.

“To have three young people die in a crash like this, it absolutely breaks your heart,” said Codd.

Investigators said it appears as though the individuals who were in the other car involved were not injured.

Deputies shut down a portion of North Federal Highway for hours, as they combed the scene well into the night.

“They are taking witness statements, gathering evidence, looking for video that will help them try and understand what led up to this tragedy,” said Codd.

Tuesday morning, the sound of saws filled the air as crews removed debris at the scene.

Authorities have not released the victims’ identities or an official cause, as they continue their investigation into the crash.

DeKalb County resident Roxy Barlow was still in bed when she heard an awful noise.

“I woke up to this sound like a failing engine — sort of like a whoooong, brrrr — and I thought, ‘Oh, is there a truck accident?’ Because you can hear the freeway now,” she said.

Barlow said more noises quickly followed.

“But then I jumped up, ’cause I heard this crashing — you know, like a whooong, pssh — and I could hear crackling of trees,” she said. “I jumped up, and I saw trees wavering.”

Barlow walked outside and saw a small plane had crashed between two houses.

DeWitt King Jr., who lives in the green house seen with a tree limb over the front door, said he was at church when someone called to say a plane had just crashed next to the house where he’s lived for 42 years.

“A little scary. Scary, yeah. Um, blessed, really, that that it didn’t get no worse than it is,” said King.

DeKalb County Battallion Fire Chief Kevin Cavanaugh said two people were flying a twin-propeller Beechcraft from Miami Executive Airport to the county-owned DeKalb-Peachtree Airport. They were just a couple of miles from the runway when the plane had engine trouble.

“They decided they were gonna try to ground it. They hit the pine trees about 80 or 90 feet up and basically stopped at the trees and landed straight down, in between two houses. No structures involved,” said Cavanaugh.

Cavanaugh said the two people on board were taken to the hospital but are expected to be OK. He even talked with them before they were transported.

“Considering the conditions, they seemed like they were in good shape for what they’ve been through,” he said.

In a statement issued Monday, a spokesperson for the Federal Aviation Administration wrote:

A Beechcraft B90 crashed in a residential area near DeKalb-Peachtree Airport in Georgia around 9:35 a.m. local time on Sunday, Dec. 28. Two people were on board. The FAA will investigate.

General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper drones were spotted over the weekend near an airport in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.

The remotely piloted aircraft are equipped for long-range intelligence and surveillance missions, and are reportedly armed with missiles.

The continued buildup comes as President Donald Trump ordered a blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela.

According to investigators, the deputy involved received an alert about a vehicle theft in Northwest Miami-Dade, just before 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Some time later, authorities said, the deputy located the vehicle and tried to pull over the motorist at the intersection of Northwest 95th Street and 17th Avenue.

Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz discussed the incident at a news conference held Monday morning.

“[The deputy] initiated the traffic stop, and I know that that’s what preempted the entire situation,” she said.

As the deputy approached the vehicle, detectives said, an argument broke out, forcing the deputy to shoot out the car.

The driver fled the scene, investigators said, The vehicle was found nearby with a gun inside shortly after, but the subject was nowhere to be found.

Back at the scene of the traffic stop, just steps from Miami Central Senior High School, 7News cameras captured a heavy law enforcement presence, with part of the roadway closed off while crime scene investigators combed the scene for clues.

The deputy involved was not hurt as a result of this altercation. It’s unclear whether or not the subject was injured.

“At this time, it’s still a pretty ongoing investigation. The subject is at large,” said Cordero-Stutz.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has taken over the investigation into this deputy-involved shooting.

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.

According to Hallandale Beach Police, one of their officers responded to the 400 block of Northwest Seventh Street in reference to a crash report, Sunday afternoon.

During the investigation, police said, a physical altercation took place involving the officer. Additional officers arrived to assist and found the situation had escalated, placing another officer in immediate danger.

Detectives said responding officers were able to gain control of the scene and take the subject into custody.

Two officers and the subject were transported to area hospitals with injuries that were not life-threatening. They are listed in stable condition.

Police said it is too early in the investigation to determine the cause of the altercation or provide further details.

Detectives urge anyone with information that may assist in this case to contact Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477).

The security footage shows a white Mercedes-Benz SUV driving past a home near the 4400 block of Northwest 43rd Court, Dec. 10.

The vehicle is seen going by the residence several times before parking nearby.

The shooter, dressed in all black with a black hoodie covering his head, is then seen running toward the back of the home. Seconds later, he is seen firing more than two dozen rounds into the property before getting back into the Mercedes and leaving the scene.

Residents who spoke with 7News off-camera said they were very surprised that something like this would happen in their neighborhood.

Detectives said no one was seriously hurt during the shooting, but they have not yet determined who the shooter is.

They urge anyone with information about this shooting or the subject’s whereabouts to 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.

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.

Davie Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the blaze off the 6800 block of College Court Manor, just after 9 a.m. on Friday.

According to Davie Police Department officials, the woman was identified as Gloria Dickenson, who was 73-years-old.

Her next of kin was on scene and notified.

Police also stated that the fire off College Court Manor was deemed accidental.

Crews arrived at the scene to find heavy smoke pouring out of the building. They began to evacuate the structure.

Residents described the ensuing chaos.

“The alarm is sounding and the fire. The neighbors are coming [outside] the house,” said a man. “Everything is happening very, very fast.”

“[I saw] only smoke. Yeah, like a lot coming out of, like, over there, like the window, I think,” said a girl.

Fire officials said crews located the woman inside the structure. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

7News footage shows that there is not much external damage to the residential structure.

Early Friday afternoon, fire officials remained at the scene as they conducted their investigation.

Neighbors have since been able to return to their homes. Volunteers with the American Red Cross are helping those impacted by the fire.

Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the blaze in a canal south of River Reach Drive, just after 11:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Video from FLFR captured the 30-feet vessel engulfed in flames from a distance.

Firefighters were able to knock down the flames.

No one was hurt.

Fire officials are now investigating the cause.

The name itself is derived from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which loosely translates to “first fruits of the harvest.”

The holiday was created in the 1960s as a non-religious celebration to honor African culture, family and community.

Each of the next seven days will focus on the following principles:

• unity
• self-determination
• collective work and responsibility
• cooperative economics
• purpose
• creativity
• faith

Celebrants will light a candle on a seven-branched candelabra to reflect on each value.

Traffic cameras captured the front cab of the 18-wheeler fully engulfed in flames near Northwest 79th Street, just before 5:55 a.m. on Friday.

About a half hour later, another traffic camera captured all southbound lanes shut down.

According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, crews responded to the scene of the blaze and used foam to douse the flames. City of Miami Fire Rescue crews also responded to assist.

A third traffic camera captured southbound traffic at a standstill near Northwest 95th Street.

The truck was left charred from the intense heat. It remains unknown whether or not anyone was injured.

All lanes have since reopened, but southbound traffic remained congested for hours.

It’s unclear what sparked the fire.

Charred wood and melted wiring is all that remains of the mobile home where Joi Roberts lived with her daughter, Heather Belliveau.

The blaze nearly claimed the lives of the two women, but their dog, who is a rescue, returned the favor, rescuing them just moments before the flames ripped through their home.

Roberts said she and her daughter were sound asleep when their dog Wiley woke them up.

“There was smoke, and [Heather] said, ‘Mom, the RV’s on fire,’ and we were in shock,” she said. “We didn’t really know what to do. We were just looking at it, trying to assess what needed to happen.”

If it hadn’t been for Wiley, the women said, they probably wouldn’t have made it out to safety.

“He absolutely [rescued us]. If it would have been 30 seconds later, I don’t know that we would have been able to get my mom out, because the place was engulfed with smoke at that point,” said Belliveau.

In the hours following the fire, a local nonprofit donated treats, toys and beds to celebrate the four-legged hero.

While most of their belongings were torched, among the precious few items untouched by the flames were the Christmas presents for Roberts’ grandchildren.

“I can’t explain it, other than it’s just another miracle. I think we had an evening of miracles, a night of miracles,” said Roberts.

Roberts and her loved ones said that despite everything going up in flames, they are grateful for their community, for their lives and for the little life that rescued them.

“That’s all just stuff; that can all be replaced. My daughter can’t be replaced. Her dogs can’t be replaced,” said Roberts. “I can’t be replaced, but I’m grateful because we still have a foundation.”

The women said they’re staying in a hotel until they can figure out a permanent living situation. A GoFundMe campaign to help them has raised $1,600 as of Thursday morning.

Mario Martinez stood before Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Victoria Sigler, Tuesday morning. The 40-year-old faces a list of charges, including exploitation of a disabled person, organized fraud and first-degree grand theft.

According to investigators, Martinez used his position at the Bank of America branch on Southwest 136th Street to steal $500,000 from a disabled client.

The suspect allegedly convinced the woman to entrust him with her money, then used a joint account to transfer the money to himself.

The victim told detectives she had no idea Martinez has opened the joint account.

Martinez was given a $50,000 bond, $10,000 for each count he faces.

Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Victoria Sigler had some words for Nicholas Eichorst during Wednesday morning’s bond hearing.

“Who doesn’t dislike the tax collector, huh?” Sigler told the 46-year-old. “But, you know, different ways to express that annoyance.”

Surveillance cameras rolled as a man who, police said, was Eichorst sprinted across the street and threw the menorah to the ground, Monday night. Bulbs scattered across the pavement and the fence around the menorah was left in pieces.

Now the suspect, who is homeless, is facing a charge of criminal mischief.

Earlier this week, Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez discussed the act of vandalism with 7News reporter Dannielle Garcia.

“Hanukkah represents light, and the only way to fight darkness is with light,” he said.

That light didn’t dim for long. Fernandez said a quiet act after the vandalism iswhat spoke volumes.

The surveillance video shows a good Samaritan restoring the menorah, piece by piece, after it was torn down.

Fernandez said the selfless act restored his faith in the community.

“It’s not a message about hate. It’s the message about, we are here to continue to fight for light, and that is the most important message here: that the only way to fight darkness is with light,” he said.

It took City of Miami Police officers less than 24 hours to locate and apprehend Eichorst.

The arrest report reveals this wasn’t the first time the suspect had targeted the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office. It states that he was arrested in November for throwing a rock at a window in the building, leaving a crack.

Regardless, the symbol of light will continue to shine with relience and solidarity.

“This beautiful time of the year is to celebrate together as a community, and that is the most important part that we have in Miami-Dade County, so it doesn’t matter what is your faith, we are going to be here for you,” said Fernandez.

Eichorst remains behind bars. Fernandez said he hopes to find the good Samaritan so he can thank him.

According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office Missing Persons Unit, Odessa Boone was last seen near the 250 block of Southwest Seventh Avenue, at around 9 p.m. on Thursday.

Boone stands 5 feet, 7 inches tall, weighs around 155 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. She was wearing a black shirt and green shorts at the time of her disappearance.

Officials urge anyone with information on Boone’s whereabouts to contact BSO Detective Chris Blankenship at 954-321-4268 or the BSO non-emergency number at 954-764-HELP (4357).

Surveillance video captured the moment when, authorities said, 36-year-old Tiffany Griffith dunked the 6-year-old in a swimming pool at Gaylord Palms Resort, Friday afternoon.

The defendant appeared before Osceola County District Court Judge John Beamer on Tuesday. She is facing a third-degree child abuse charge.

Griffith claimed she tried to protect her young son from other children in the pool. The mother said her son is on the autism spectrum and was being bullied.

But a responding an Osceola County Sheriff’s Office deputy who took the stand saw the situation differently.

“[The defendant] placed both of her hands on his shoulders and submerged them in the water for a couple of seconds. [The boy] wasn’t – he wasn’t sure; he advised it was approximately two to four seconds, and then [she] let go of him, proceeded to splash water before exiting the pool.”

Beamer said the victim’s parents reported the incident and told authorities he was bleeding from his nose when he got out of the pool. Griffith was arrested shortly after.

The judge agreed with the state, saying Griffith’s actions were an overreaction.

“The bond for the defendant will be set in the amount of $20,000,” he said.

However, Beamer ultimately decided he does not believe Griffith is a threat to the community.

“A parent should certainly know not to put their hands on someone else’s child, and certainly, any former law enforcement should know not to put their hands on someone else’s child,” he said. “However, this is an isolated incident. It seems to be reactionary, an overreaction.”

Griffith bonded out of jail just before 11 p.m. on Tuesday. Under the terms of the bond, she is not allowed to speak to the victim or the victim’s family

Ten Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the blaze in the area of Northwest 36th Street and 30th Avenue, at around 6:25 p.m. on Tuesday.

Crews arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from the mobile home. They deployed hose lines through the structure in order to conduct a fire attack and knock down the flames.

Firefighters were able to pull two dogs out of the burning home. No one was hurt.

The American Red Cross is helping the impacted residents as investigators attempt to determine what sparked the flames.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a ShotSpotter alert near Northwest 21st Avenue and 63rd Street, at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday.

Responding deputies arrived to find the victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

Witnesses reported more than 30 shots fired.

Paramedics with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue rushed the victims to an area hospital, where the man succumbed to his injuries and the woman remains in critical condition.

MDSO Homicide detectives continue to investigate.

If you have any information on this shooting or the whereabouts of the subject or subjects involved, 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.

7Skyforce hovered above the zoo, located in Southwest Miami-Dade, just after 10:35 a.m. on Tuesday.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue units were seen near the entrance to the zoo.

7News learned the zoo requested bomb-sniffing dogs from MDSO.

Zoo officials initially took to social media to confirm they have closed “due to an unforeseen circumstance,” then posted the following statement:

“We received a potential threat that’s believed to be a hoax. Out of caution, staff were evacuated & a sweep is underway. We will have a delayed opening. There is no immediate threat to the public. Safety remains our priority, and you will be notified once we are cleared to open.”

MDSO officials confirmed they completed a sweep of the zoo and gave the all clear, paving the way for the zoo to reopen.

No injuries were reported.

Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a domestic incident near the 100 block of Northeast 41st Street and First Terrace at around 1 a.m. on Tuesday.

Responding deputies arrived to find the woman suffering from stab wounds inside a corner unit on the first floor of the apartment building. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators said deputies made contact with the subject, identified as 37-year-old Mario Alejandro Ramirez, who was suffering from a self-inflicted wound. Deputies struggled with him while applying pressure to stop the bleeding.

Deputies were able to control Ramirez and take him into custody, detectives said.

7DroneForce captured part of the complex cordoned off with crime scene tape.

On the ground, 7News cameras captured crime scene investigators near a stairwell and outside a first floor unit.

Residents say they are shocked to hear what happened.

“I see like a body laying on the floor and I was like, ‘What’s going on?'” said an area resident.

“Definitely shocked to hear that,” said a man.

Neighbors said they witnesses investigators walking around the apartment complex throughout the night and were asked questions by the officials.

“Asking us if we heard anything, if we knew the neighbors and such,” said the resident.

Paramedics with Oakland Park Fire Rescue transported Ramirez to Broward Health Medical Center for treatment. His condition is unknown.

Crime scene investigators spent hours investigating the first floor unit, as they collected evidence and attempted to piece together the circumstances that led up to the stabbing.

Early Tuesday morning, the medical examiner’s office responded to the scene and removed the woman’s body from the apartment unit on a stretcher.

Ramirez now faces one count of murder in the second degree.

Detectives have not released information on how the two were related as the investigation continues.

Miami Gardens Police and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the triple shooting in the area of Northwest 175th Street and 19th Avenue, just south of Hard Rock Stadium and right next to Parkview Elementary School, just before 12:45 a.m. on Tuesday.

According to investigators, the party was taking place at a short-term rental, with about 30 people inside, including juveniles.

“The juveniles were attending a house party at [a short-term rental] house when three ski-masked men entered the home and started shooting,” said Miami Gardens Police spokesperson Diana Delgado.

Surveillance video shows the moment shots rang out and partygoers started running for safety. Fire rescue units arrived a short time later.

Responding officers arrived at the home to find the three victims suffering from gunshot wounds, but the three masked men were nowhere to be found.

Paramedics airlifted two victims to a local hospital and transported the third patient by ground.

“Two of the victims were pronounced deceased at the hospital. One of those victims was the juvenile,” said Delgado.

The surviving man’s condition is critical but stable.

Back at the scene, officers briefly shut down Northwest 175th Street between 19th and 20th avenues as they investigated. 7News cameras captured officers going in and out of the residence where the shooting took place.

A woman who lives next door told 7News that she heard the party, and it sounded like a younger crowd. She added that she never heard any fights.

“Scary, scary, right next door to me. This is a quiet neighborhood, and it’s scary,” said the neighbor, who asked not to be identified or show her face on camera.

The owners of the home said they had been living there for a long time and had only recently begun renting it out. They said a woman rented the property through Booking.com on Sunday, and shortly before the party, she unplugged the security cameras.

Later on Tuesday, a mobile flyer was on display asking for answers.

Detectives said there is no threat to the community, despite the three subjects remaining at large. They have not specified what led to the gunfire or the victims’ ages.

If you have any information on this shooting 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.

7News cameras captured Sugar4Kids founder Mary Faison said as she knocked on the door of a home in Southwest Miami-Dade, Monday morning.

“We’re here to deliver toys. Go tell them to come to the door,” Faison told the woman who answered the door.

The community effort aimed to make sure to make sure no child in Miami-Dade county goes without joy this holiday season.

“Next stop, we’re going to Cutler Bay,” said Miami-Dade Public Schools Police Officer Ruben Ruiz.

Representatives from several organizations stopped at dozens of homes with bags full of toys.

“The kids are excited. They’re happy, they’re surprised; more importantly, they’re very surprised,” said Faison.

The efforts, coordinated by the nonprofit Sugar4Kids, were the end result of the community coming together to right a wrong.

Just last week, Faison said, someone stole thousands of dollars in toys from a U-Haul belonging to her nonprofit.

“When we went to the third truck, this lock was cut, it was cut, and the back was raised,” she said.

The theft hindered Faison’s ability to give back.

“I don’t understand it,” she said.

When the story of the theft aired on 7News, it caught the eyes of many, including the Miami-Dade Public Schools Police Department.

“And we said, ‘You know what? We need to do something,'” said Ruiz. “There’s no way I can sit at home during the holidays knowing that there’s kids that missed out on Christmas.”

Ruiz and fellow officer Miguel Hart stepped in to help on their days off, Monday morning, along with other local groups like Saving Grace International and Saving Generations.

“Our goal is actually to help them, uplift them, and make sure that they know they’re not alone,” said Kimberly Bregart with Saving Grace International.

Local businesses like BOXR Gym also lent a helping hand and donated a truck full of toys.

“We’ve got the Avengers; we’ve got a bunch of it, actually, it’s pretty crazy. There’s some girls’ toys; there’s a mix,” said BOXR Gym CEO Matthew Attalla.

Together they spent hours going door to door…

The toys not only left smiles on the children’s faces, but mainly their parents.

“It means a lot, ’cause I don’t have anything,” said parent Briana King. “I am a single mother with three girls, so I don’t really have much help.”

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office didn’t immediately respond to 7News’ request for comment as to where their investigation into the theft of the toys stands.

For more information on the Sugar4Kids Foundation and their efforts to help this holiday season, click here.

7News cameras captured a long line of several hundred customers extending the parking lot of Knaus Berry Farm’s new location at 16790 SW 177th Ave., off Krome Avenue in Southwest Miami-Dade, just after 7 a.m. on Monday.

The beloved South Florida staple, now located a little north of their original location, opened to the public about an hour later, following months of anticipation, and will remain open until 5:30 p.m.

“This is really awesome, to see the passion people have for this business. That they’re here this early in the morning is just a tribute to what Knaus has built, the tradition they’ve had for 70 years,” said Joel White, Knaus Berry Farm’s new partner and general manager.

The location may be new, but White said the homemade recipes for their signature cinnamon rolls and strawberry shakes, the same ones that have kept Floridians coming back since 1956, haven’t changed.

“We’re really passionate about keeping the tradition going. We have the same menu, exact same items. We’re really excited; we have about 90% of the same staff in our kitchen,” said White. “The bakers, they have about 100 years of baking experience with Knaus. When people join here, they stay for a long time, which is awesome.”

Customers coming to purchase their comfort-food goodies will find a lot of it looks very similar to Knaus’ original location.

“We brought over the shake stand from the old location, so it’s literally the same shake stand. We brought over a lot of the ovens, so I think people will be pleased when they’re able to taste the products,” said White.

First in line Monday morning was a woman who came with her youngest daughter. She said she arrived at 8 p.m. on Sunday.

“Family tradition, I’ve been doing it for 40 years with my dad,” she said. “I mean, I’ve known the people who [owned Knaus Berry Farm], the parents and everything.”

She added that she will try to ensure the sweet treats she buys Monday last until Christmas Day.

Joann Jackson drove down all the way from Dania Beach with one mission in mind.

“I’m here for the cinnamon rolls that are amazing. If you could have Smell-O-Vision, smell it,” she said.

For many, coming to Knaus Berry Farm is more than just biting into a cinnamon role; it’s a taste of home that no words can describe.

“It’s yummy good, it’s so beyond good,” said Jackson.

After hours of waiting, the moment finally arrived: warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, passed out one at a time, turning anticipation into payoff.

“[Getting here at] 4 a.m. paid off. I got my cinnamon rolls,” said Jackson.

“Amazing, same delicious taste,” said the woman who was first in line.

Knaus Berry Farm will be open Christmas Eve but will remain closed Christmas Day. Under the new management, they’ll be open Sundays as well, and they now accept credit cards. For more information, click here.

Fort Lauderdale Police and Fire Rescue units responded to the scene of the shooting at the Chevron location along Northwest 62nd Street, near 31st Avenue, just after 3:35 p.m. on Sunday.

First responders arrived at the scene to find the victim suffering from gunshot wounds.

Paramedics rushed the patient to Broward Health Medical Center as a trauma alert. As of Monday morning, her condition is unknown.

Investigators said this was an isolated incident, and they do not believe there is any threat to the public.

If you have any information on this shooting or the subject’s whereabouts, 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.

7DroneForce captured a bird’s-eye view of the wreck near Northwest Seventh Street and 30th Avenue, just after 8 a.m. on Friday.

City of Miami Police units responded to the scene of the three-vehicle crash near Northwest Seventh Street and 30th Avenue, at around 4:20 a.m.

According to investigators, a white pickup side-swiped a gray Nissan just before colliding head-on into a white Ford Crown Victoria, sending debris everywhere.

The white Crown Victoria was seen with its front completely destroyed after it slammed into a pole, while the Nissan sedan careened into a used car lot after the driver plowed through a green gate. The white pickup was seen parked on a sidewalk.

Paramedics transported the victims, ages 31, 35 and 79, to Jackson Memorial Hospital. Detectives said the 31-year-old patient is in serious condition and the 35-year-old is stable.

Authorities say the 79-year-old, who was driving the Crown Victoria, succumbed to his injuries.

Officials say he lived at a retirement community just a few blocks away from the crash.

Residents there were heartbroken to hear the news.

“He was a very good person,” one resident said in Spanish.

“We are really sad, devastated,” said social services coordinator Diana Villalba. “Very decent, very gentle man.”

Back at the scene, officers shut down Northwest Seventh Street between 30th Place and 32nd Avenue but it has since reopened.

Police say the other two drivers are expected to be OK.

They also say there are charges pending for the driver of the pickup truck.

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.

Cellphone video posted to social media shows Kiara Bryant repeatedly punching a male employee at the Planet Fitness location at 775 SW 8th St., this past Friday.

Before tensions pumped up, witnesses said, the 35-year-old was visibly and verbally angry inside the gym. Footage shows things escalating as she puts on her socks and shoes to confront the employee.

According to a police report, the victim told officers that Bryant was yelling and acting disorderly in the locker room. When she came to the front entrance, he told her to lower her voice or he would call the police.

The report states the victim told officers that Bryant became more irate and came up to his face. He pushed her back with both hands in self-defense, but he said that only made matters worse.

In the video, Bryant appears to leave the gym, then quickly returns and jumps over the customer service counter to get close to the employee. She then goes on to punch him in the face, hitting him multiple times, as he crouched down and put his hands behind his neck in an attempt to shield his face.

Investigators said that after attacking the employee, she tried to escape in her car but was confronted by bystanders in the parking lot. When she noticed the commotion, she exited her vehicle and began to aggressively try to fight all of them at once until officers arrived.

The violent confrontation ended with the woman in handcuffs and charged with battery and disorderly conduct. The employee was left with a broken nose from the beating.

Friday morning, 7News showed the video to several startled members of this Planet Fitness location.

“That’s insane, it shouldn’t happen,” said a man. “I don’t know what was her reason. The gentleman is OK; I asked.”

“It’s crazy, it’s very crazy,” said another man. “The gym is not for that. It’s for trying, for [getting] healthy. I don’t know.”

In a statement, Planet Fitness spokesperson Heather Pearson wrote:

“The safety of our employees and members is our top priority and we have zero tolerance for violence of any kind in our clubs. We are committed to providing a safe environment. The franchise group worked closely with local police and have cancelled the member in question.”

The employee has since hired Weil Law Firm to represent him. 7News spoke to attorney Alecsander Kohn about the incident.

“He was simply doing his job as he does each and every day,” said Kohn. “Unfortunately, a customer took things too far and engaged in a brutal and vicious battery against him, ultimately fracturing his nose and sending him to the hospital.”

Kohn said the current focus of the case is making sure Bryant is held accountable.

“This course of events transpired simply from a directive to refrain from engaging in loud and disruptive behavior in the gym. She took out her anger against our client,” he said.

The victim has since returned to work.

Bryant has since bonded out of jail.

James Hardwick was found guilty on Tuesday on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the March 19, 2021 killing of Misty Hopkins.

7News cameras captured a prosecutor delivering closing statements in court Tuesday.

“There is not a single shred of reasonable doubt in this case,” he said. “He got paid for killing Misty Hopkins for his role in a murder.”

The guilty verdict for Hardwick came soon after.

Surveillance video obtained exclusively by 7News captured Hopkins, the owner of the waxing and laser hair removal business Hair Free, seconds before she was fatally gunned down around lunchtime outside the salon, located in the area of Northwest 27th Avenue, near 175th Street.

Nearly five years later, there’s justice for Hopkins’ loved ones, now that Hardwick, the getaway driver in her cold-blooded murder, has been convicted.

Hopkins’ friends and family spoke with 7News to share their reaction to the conviction.

“It’s been a long time coming. I’m happy, you know, for the family, we’re getting justice,” said Carey.

Despite justice being served, they said it’s a tough moment to process.

“It’s a bittersweet, you know, we don’t have our sister but yet we have one victory, that’s kind of how we feel at this point,” said Giovanni Young, Hopkins’ brother.

“It’s bittersweet. I’m still sad, you know, still broken, missing her. Her kids is missing her dear, her mom, her siblings,” said Carey.

Years later, Hopkins’ loved ones still cherish her memory.

“She was a caring person. She was a good wife, a good mother, a good sister, a good friend,” Carey said. “She was definitely a special person to many people. She brought joy in different ways to different people.”

“She was just an amazing soul and it’s still unbelievable that she’s not here,” said Young.

They also hope justice comes to the man who pulled the trigger.

“She did not deserve this. She didn’t deserve none of this,” Hopkins’ mother said. “They shot her in her head. In the back of her head. That’s a cowardly act.”

“We want the shooter, the one that actually took her life,” said Carey.

“Once judgment is cast, whether by God or by the courts, they will pay a price,” said Jair Smith, Hopkins’ brother.

The alleged shooter, Joseph Christophe, is in prison on unrelated charges.

In a statement issued Tuesday night, Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle wrote:

“Gun violence and gang violence will not be tolerated… Misty Hopkins’ innocent life was too high a price to be paid so that gang members could exact revenge against others for a perceived transgression.”

Miami Gardens Police said Hopkins was approaching the salon door when she was confronted and shot to death by a man wearing a black hoodie. She died in the hallway.

Investigators said the gunman fled down a flight of stairs and headed west, crossing Northwest 27th Avenue.

Hopkins’ loved ones told 7News that she was not robbed but was shot several times.

“What does that tell you?” 7News’ reporter Karen Hensel asked Melanie Wilsthire, Hopkins’ sister during a 2021 interview.

“That it was intentional. That they were out to seek revenge,” said Wilsthire. “It’s not right. You have to be some kind of devil to even try to shoot her in her face and just the thought of you just putting the bullet to her face…”

Christophe could face charges connected to this case over the coming months or years.

DeShawn Prendergast, with the bridge of his nose bandaged, stood before Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Mindy S. Glazer, late Wednesday morning.

“It’s my first time ever being arrested, Your Honor,” he said.

The New York native said he was only in Miami for tourism, but police say during his stay, he stole a Ferrari, ran from police and crashing the luxury car in Brickell.

The 28-year-old faces a list of charges, including fleeing and eluding police and grand theft auto.

According to investigators, Prendergast crashed a 2024 Ferrari Purosangue that was reported stolen into the power pole in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, early Tuesday morning.

The impact took out a transformer.

Prendergast managed to not only get out nearly unscathed but run off and hide from police.

Cellphone video recorded by Michael Severino captured the moment of impact near the 1200 block of Southwest Second Avenue.

The bird’s-eye view from the Brickell high-rise Severino calls home shows it all play out.

“It’s so weird, because everything happened so quick,” said Severino. “I was recording reels for my [Instagram], and next thing you know, I see a whole police chase.”

Police said it all began Monday, when residents on North Meridian Avenue in Miami Beach reported that their Ferrari and 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan were stolen while in the care of a transport company.

According to the vehicles’ owners, the transport company stopped answering once the cars were missing.

“Not shocked at all. I mean, it’s a gorgeous car. If it was a Ferrari Purosangue, that’s probably the car I would pick, too,” said Brickell resident Robert Brand.

Detectives said the Rolls-Royce was recovered in an unspecified part of Miami-Dade County, but the Ferrari remained missing.

Then, shortly after midnight on Tuesday, City of Miami Police officers spotted the stolen Ferrari in the area of Southwest Second Avenue and 17th Street.

When the officers tried to make a traffic stop, investigators, Prendergast sped off, but he would not get very far.

“I see the Ferrari turn right here on this street, and he just collides with the cop,” said Severino.

The impact caused the suspect to lose control and slam into the power pole, sending sparks flying and knocking out the electricity in several homes.

“All of a sudden I hear a loud boom, and then all of the lights went really bright,” said Brand. “My microwave started making noises, and then everything just shut off immediately, and my whole apartment was without power.”

Cellphone video shows police running after Prendergast after, detectives said, he tried to hide in a nearby apartment building.

Eventually, police said, Prendergast surrendered, and after being treated at the hospital for a gash, he was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in West Miami-Dade.

In court Wednesday, Glazer said Prendergast should face additional charges.

“It looks like he also should have been charged with resisting without [violence] — he wasn’t — ’cause he fled from the police after he exited the vehicle,” she said.

Prendergast’s bond was set at $12,000. It has since been paid, and he is expected to be released later on Wednesday.

As of Wedneday afternoon, Miami Beach Police have not said whether the theft was part of an elaborate car theft ring or an isolated incident. They also haven’t specified how Prendergast got to drive the Ferrari in the first place and whether or not he works for the transportation company.

City of Miami Police and Fire Rescue responded to the scene of the crash on the corner of Northwest 54th Street and Third Avenue, at around 6 p.m. on Monday.

The driver slammed their car into the structure, which houses a gym, leaving a hole in the wall.

Paramedics transported the patient to Jackson Memorial Hospital in unknown condition.

It remains unclear what caused the crash.

Surveillance video captured the moment of impact, as a 2024 Ferrari Purosangue slams into the light pole, literally causing sparks to fly, early Tuesday morning.

Seconds later, the screen goes white, because the transformer blew up, causing the power to go out in the area.

“It seems like it lights all the city,” said witness Andre Lermakov.

“I was sitting in my living room, on my laptop doing a bit of work, and all of a sudden I hear a loud boom, and then all of the lights went really bright,” said area resident Robert Brand. “My microwave started making noises, and then everything just shut off immediately, and my whole apartment was without power.”

7DroneForce hovered above the dark colored Ferrari, smashed and mangled. There was a wooden beam going through the driver’s side window.

According to Miami Beach Police, this all started when they responded to the reported theft of the Ferrari and a 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan along the 4200 block of North Meridian Avenue, at around 5:30 p.m. on Monday.

The owner of the Ferrari and the Rolls-Royce told 7News said they had hired a company to wrap the cars, adding they had used this company for years.

The vehicles’ owner believes the company hired a third-party transportation company to deliver the cars, and they believe the transportation company might have been behind the theft.

Miami Beach Police said that several hours later the owner of the company hired to wrap the Ferrari and Rolls-Royce called the vehicles’ owner to report they never arrived.

The vehicles’ owner said the transportation company stopped answering their phone.

Detectives said the Cullinan was recovered in an unspecified part of Miami-Dade County, but the Ferrari remained missing.

“Not shocked at all. I mean, it’s a gorgeous car. If it was a Ferrari Purosangue, that’s probably the car I would pick, too,” said Brand.

Early Tuesday morning, City of Miami Police said, the vehicle’s owner was able to ping the vehicle to the area of Southwest Second Avenue and 17th Street in Miami.

Responding officers spotted the subject getting into the Ferrari and driving off, investigators said, prompting them to conduct a traffic stop.

The driver took off, but he wouldn’t get very far. Police said he collided with a police cruiser, then lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the light pole.

“You know, it’s like you see [“Grand Theft Auto”] in real life,” said Lermakov.

Miraculously, the man was able to get out of the Ferrari, unscathed, and take off on foot.

“Like, I’m wondering how he was able to come out. Like, it looks like he’s kind of Houdini or someone. I don’t know,” said Lermakov.

The 28-year-old was not quite Houdini.

“Once that subject exited his vehicle, after the crash took place, he did a tip to conceal himself, at which point [officers] no longer had eyes on him,” said Miami Police spokesperson Kiara Delva.

Michael Severino witnessed the pursuit and subsequent crash from his 25th-floor balcony. Luckily, he had his phone camera rolling when it all unfolded.

“Everything happened so quick. I was just recording some reels for my Instagram and next thing you know, I see a whole police chase,” he said. “I see the Ferrari turn right here on this street and he collides with the cop and started drifting and lost control and crashed into a light pole.”

He said his video went viral on Instagram after he posted it.

Cellphone video captured officers with flashlights after they set up a perimeter.

“They were trying to look around and find [the driver] in the bushes. They were using flashlights and riding around that area,” said Iermakov.

“Let’s go ahead and see if county has K-9 out here and if not, let’s see if we can get our K-9 out here,” said an officer via police scanner.

Officers were able to track down and apprehend the subject shortly after. They say the man tried hiding in a nearby apartment building.

Paramedics transported the subject to Jackson Memorial Hospital with minor lacerations.

Back at the scene, cellphone video recorded by a witness shows multiple Miami Police units near Southwest Second Avenue, between 12th and 13th streets.

No other injuries were reported.

“Fortunately, no other innocent bystanders were injured as a result of this incident,” said Delva. “However, this could have taken a very tragic turn, so we’re very thankful that this subject was ultimately apprehended, and we can now charge him accordingly.”

The Ferrari has since been towed from the scene.

On Tuesday morning, 7News cameras captured Florida Power & Light crews lifting the toppled pole, as they attempted to get it back up and running.

The man was identified as DeShawn Prendergast, a New York native. He was booked into jail after being treated at the hospital.

He was charged with grand theft, running from police, among other charges.

Police are attempting to determine who was involved in this theft and whether it was a part of an elaborate car theft ring or an isolated incident.

Prendergast remains behind bars as of Tuesday night as a bond has not been set for one of his charges.

The basketball team on Sunday with Carnival and the nonprofit Direct Relief to pack up 24 pallets of critical medical supplies at PortMiami to be shipped to Jamaica.

The $1 million donation includes hygiene kits, medical items and other essential goods. It was all loaded onto the Carnival Horizon” to be taken to Ocho Rios, where it will arrive later next week

“We all come together, you know, to try to figure out ways that we can help, our fans in the Caribbean,” said former Heat player Alonzo Mourning.

“There’s still continuing need, so we do encourage our fans, we do encourage South Florida to continue to support by visiting DirectRelief.org/supportJamaica and please make your donations there,” said Miami Heat representative Ralph Leon.

Their effort is part of a huge humanitarian response to deliver a total of 68 tons of aid to the island in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s path of destruction.

The Miami Beach Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3559 hosted its second annual Santa Forward Operating Base event, Saturday afternoon.

Santa Claus and the Grinch made special appearances at Post 3559, which was transformed by veterans into a winter wonderland.

They got some help from the U.S. Coast Guard and the Miami Beach Fire Department. Volunteers collected and distributed new, unwrapped toys with the help of the U.S. Marine Corps and their Toys for Tots program.

Local law enforcement agencies, including Miami Beach Police, said they are ramping up their presence at synagogues and places of worship out of an abundance of caution, so that the Jewish community and others alike feel safe.

The measures happen as Jewish communities across South Florida stood strong in their faith in the aftermath of the massacre at Sydney’s Bondi Beach that left 15 people dead on the first night of Hanukkah.

“We stand united. You did not die in vain. Your flame will continue to burn through our menorah,” said a speaker at a local Hanukkah celebration.

Sunday’s Hanukkah celebrations continued as planned in both Cooper City and Fort Lauderdale, with moments of reflection and prayer for those impacted by the antisemitic terrorist attack.

“As we try to celebrate in happiness the beginning of this festival, let us not forget those who are suffering tonight with their families, their friends at a time when they, too, should be celebrating,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis.

The Jewish community came out in droves. Their message was one of strength and pride.

“We cannot let us deter us from who we are,” said a a rabbi at the Fort Lauderdale celebration.

“It’s more important than ever that Jews be more Jewish than ever,” said an attendee at the Fort Lauderdale celebration.

“It’s a tragic, terrible thing, and we just have to go on, and we have to celebrate anyway,” said another attendee.

Further south in Miami Beach, city leaders also condemned the violence.

“I’m horrified. I’m devastated. It brought tears to my eyes. It’s out of control, the antisemitism,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner.

Meiner said that he was not surprised, however.

“Unfortunately it’s all too predictable, the rhetoric, the antisemitism, the anti-Israel, the propaganda, the lies that are being said so casually. It’s just that you know it’s going to lead to this and this is why we have to counter the lies and the propaganda when we see it. They impact us here in Miami Beach,” said Meiner.

Officials in Miami Beach, like in many other municipalities, said they are ramping up security at synagogues and sacred places.

“We’ve definitely – we’ve implemented our high-risk protocols. We’re going to have extra police visibility around synagogues, Jewish neighborhoods, Hanukkah events that are scheduled. We’re going on,” said Meiner.

As the Hanukkah celebrations continue in South Florida, local community leaders reiterated their conviction that good will prevail over evil.

“We hope and pray that Jews all over the world, and the whole world together, comes together and does not allow terrorism to scare us or stop us, but on the contrary, we take the message of light over darkness,” said Rabbi Yossi Harlig from the Chabad of Kendall and Pinecrest.

Other religious leaders shared their thoughts on the situation as well.

“To make up for that kind of darkness that they tried to make for us, we need to make sure that we overcome it with extra light wherever we are,” said Rabbi Meyer Haber from Young Israel of Sunny Isles. “Our connection to God no matter who you are, is a connection of love. Hate has no place.”

“Now, we are even stronger and with more intention as we are going to light the Hannukiah,” said Rabbi Liora Ramati of Temple Emanu-El. “Yes, bad things happen every day, but we choose to see the good, even in darkness.”

“The terrorists that did what they did in Sydney were hoping that Jews would hide under their bed, we’re not gonna do that, we’re gonna show that we’re proud of being a Jew, we’re not gonna be scared,” said Rabbi Zev Katz, from the Chabad of Miami Beach.

People honored those who were killed and hurt overseas during what was supposed to be a time of prayer and love.

“As soon as you light a candle, the darkness goes away,” said a speaker at a local Hanukkah celebration.

“Just a small bit of light, can shine up a whole world of darkness.” said another speaker.

A gathering took place in Miami Beach to promote solidarity between those in the Jewish community Monday evening, on the second night of Hannukah.

While Miami Beach Police said there are no known local threats, they and many other police departments across South Florida are reminding residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.

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.

Participants in Sunday’s ran either a 5K or a 10K, as they jogged through iconic landscapes and oceanfront views.

Sunday’s run was done for a good cause, as all proceeds benefit the Orange Bowl Cares charity.

“More than just a single game, it’s a community impact. We give back to the community. Orange Bowl Cares gives so much back to our underserved communities, communities in Dade, Broward, Palm Beach counties, so we’re out here today to support and have fun today.” said Paul Lowenthal, Orange Bowl member and chair of the Orange Bowl Beach Run.

Orange Bowl Cares inspires young students to become successful community leaders in the future.

The Orange Bowl game will be held on New Year’s Day. The two teams that will face off have yet to be decided.

Officials advise residents to avoid water-related recreational activities in a portion of the Intracoastal Waterway, south of the East Oakland Park Boulevard bridge, as a result of the overflow.

The boundaries of the impacted area are:

• North: East Oakland Park Boulevard
• South: Northeast 27th Avenue
• West: Northeast 30th Avenue
• East: Northeast 33rd Avenue

Officials advise residents and visitors to refrain from swimming, fishing, riding a personal watercraft, paddle-boarding, kayaking, canoeing or engaging in any other water-related activities within the advisory area.

The water warning comes one day before boaters set sail along the Intracoastal as part of the 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade.

Officials said water will be sampled daily in the affected area, and they will lift the advisory once they obtain satisfactory test results.

For more information, contact the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Customer Service Center by calling 954-828-8000, emailing cservice@fortlauderdale.gov, via the FixItFTL app, or online at fortlauderdale.gov/fixitftl.

Saturday evening, boats and yachts adorned with festive and colorful decorations will make their way up the Intracoastal Waterway, but before the vessels take to the water, boaters are advised that the waterway and the New River will be temporarily closed to vessels not participating in the annual holiday tradition. The closures are as follows:

• At 2:30 p.m., the New River will close to non-parade vessels from the fork near Little Florida, west of Cooley’s Landing and east to Marker 9.
• At 4:50 p.m., the Intracoastal Waterway will close from Port Everglades to Oakland Park Bridge South.
• At 5:50 p.m., the Intracoastal Waterway will close from north of Oakland Park Bridge to Lake Santa Barbara.

Several drawbridges along the parade route will remain closed to vehicle traffic for several hours, just before and during the event. The times for the following closures are approximate:

• Seventh Avenue Bridge will close from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• FEC Railroad Bridge will close from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Andrews Avenue drawbridge will close from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Third Avenue Bridge will close from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Las Olas Boulevard drawbridge will close from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Sunrise Boulevard drawbridge will close from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Oakland Park Boulevard drawbridge will close from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Commercial Boulevard drawbridge will close from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Organizers said that the Seventh Avenue, Andrews Avenue and Third Avenue bridges will be on demand for waterway traffic before and after Parade.

For more information about the 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, click here.

According to investigators, it all began with a theft incident at the Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood, early Thursday morning. It ended hours later with both the deputy and the subject in the hospital.

Seminole Police officials said the subject grabbed cash out of the hand of a patron. No one was hurt at the casino.

Deputies were called to assist in the arrest of the man, who, investigators said, led them on a roughly 17-mile pursuit.

During their search, BSO’s Aviation Unit and Burglary Apprehension Team traveled through the North Lauderdale district. North Lauderdale and Margate Police units were also involved in the operation.

Authorities said they ended up along the 6100 block of Northwest Second Street in Margate, and that’s when things took a violent turn. At around 2:30 p.m., deputies said, the man they were looking for opened fire on the deputies, prompting multiple deputies to return fire.

“A deputy-involved shooting did occur,” said BSO spokesperson Miranda Grossman. “The suspect was armed in the car and fired a shot at the deputy.”

Surveillance video from a camera recorded the gunshots.

“One of our deputies was shot by the suspect. Fortunately, he was protected by his bulletproof vest, and he did not sustain life-threatening injuries,” said Grossman.

Another surveillance camera captured SWAT units surrounding a black car.

7Skyforce hovered above the scene, where a SWAT vehicle was seen next to the black car, which was riddled with bullets. A white unmarked police pickup truck with a bullet hole in the windshield was parked right behind the black vehicle, and a pool of blood was seen on the ground next to the black vehicle.

Video shared with 7News appears to show the subject on a gurney being loaded into the back of an ambulance following the incident.

Paramedics transported both the deputy and the subject to Broward Health North. The deputy is expected to be OK.

Residents who live in the neighborhood, some of whom coudn’t go inside their homes, told 7News they heard the gunfire.

Marcha Mohamed said she hid in her home as it all unfolded.

“And also, I heard like ‘pop pop’ noises, and I thought it was fireworks at first. I’m like, ‘Fireworks in the day?'” she said.

“I heard the shots. I heard one shot, and then about 20 shots,” said Tom.

Another resident said she was shocked to learn what had happened.

“Upon my arrival, to see just the inundation of police officers and undercovers and the SWAT team, I’ve never seen this in my neighborhood, and I’ve been living here since 2000,” she said.

7News cameras captured bullet holes in nearby homes.

“We were in shock, ’cause this is a quiet neighborhood. Nothing like that [has] really happened,” said Constance Dennis, who lives on the same block where the shooting took place.

BSO said their deputies’ gear and training did precisely what it was supposed to do, especially after recent tragedies involving other South Florida law enforcement agencies that resulted in the loss of a brother in blue.

“To know that this deputy puts his life in danger every single day, like all of our deputies do, and that he can go home to his family tonight,” said Grossman.

Thursday night, deputies remained at the scene collecting evidence as they pieced together what led up to the shooting.

As of early Friday afternoon, detectives have not disclosed the subject’s identity or condition.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating this deputy-involved shooting.

7News cameras captured Miramar Police officers bringing large boxes of toys to the Miramar Park of Commerce, late Thursday morning. The finishing touches were being put ahead of Sunbeam Properties’ 10th annual Polar Express, which is set to deliver toys and smiles to deserving kids.

“We have about 80 tenants each year at the Miramar Park of Commerce that participate in this annual Polar Express toy drive,” said Sunbeam Properties Vice President Ryan Goggins. “We count on donations from them and then partner with the City of Miramar Police Department to help distribute.”

All throughout the morning, one after the other, boxes were dropped off at the venue. The gifts will be handed out to Miramar families next week, ahead of the holidays.

“We come up with a theme every year. This year’s theme is ‘Fiesta of Giving,'” said Goggins. “We try to make it something that’s exciting, something that’s fun to bring the community together to support a great event.”

Those tenants Goggins mentioned told 7News they can’t wait to spread holiday cheer to all these families.

“I feel so happy, and the company is happy to contribute with them,” said Jennifer Mara with Jamaica Aerospace.

“It’s giving back to those who don’t have, to those that are in need, and it’s just a good feeling to be part of it,” said Miguel Capeles, Facilities Manager with Caterpillar.

“To assist Sunbeam, the Park of Commerce, to be able to gather toys and go out into the community and find those people who need help around the holidays, especially, is the ultimate meaning of being able to give back to your community,” said Brent Steffan with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 189.

Last year, the Sunbeam Polar Express collected roughly 3,000 toys. This year, organizers said they hope to collect even more.

“There’s a lot of needy kids out there, a lot of needy families, and this is a great way of giving back,” said Capeles.

On Thursday afternoon, the trucks began to make their way to the Miramar Police Department.

“This is a chance to see people at their best, build relationships and we get the help of the business community,” said Miramar Police Chief Delrish Moss. “Sunbeam, the Ansin Family, have been tremendous in helping us organize this and like I said, for us it’s the best time of the year.”

Next week, officers will go out into community and deliver these toys.

7Skyforce hovered above the scene at West Eighth Avenue and 81st Street, off the Gratigny Parkway, as police and SWAT units surrounded a warehouse unit, just after noon on Thursday.

Investigators said officers were attempting to serve a warrant when the subject armed himself, went to the back of the warehouse and refused to come out.

Detectives have not specified the nature of the warrant they were trying to serve.

Officers set up a perimeter. At around 1 p.m., police confirmed the subject surrendered and was apprehended, but have not provided further details.

Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue teamed up with Santa Claus this week to bring holiday cheer to the community.

Neighbors reached out to the city and asked Santa and his elves to stop by and deliver gifts to the children.

Their parents even offered to pitch in, since Santa is busy this time of year, and bought the gifts for him. Old St. Nick nevertheless showed up with the fire department to deliver them.

El Grinch is back at Universal Studios Hollywood — dancing, joking and spreading cheer (and mischief) in Spanish and Spanglish.

The miserly grouch conjured up by Dr. Seuss is turning the imaginary movie scene of Whoville into what fans are now calling “Wholisco.” It’s a play on words for the city of Culiacán and the state of Jalisco in Mexico.

In a video testimony shown in court on Wednesday, Ingrid Villanueva Pineda described her life being trafficked as a child by the man who would eventually become the father of her son, Jason Banegas. She said she was a teenager when she gave birth to her son despite the demands of his father.

“I didn’t want to abort my child. That was everything to me,” she said.

Villanueva Pineda described Banegas’s tumultuous childhood, filled with ups and downs. She said stealing was part of growing up in his Miami neighborhood and that depression had already set in before he witnessed his best friend get shot and killed in front of him.

“He’d cry for nothing, he’d cry for anything and everything. ‘What’s wrong with your son?'” the mother said in the video testimony.

After she described a tumultuous childhood, Villanueva Pineda asked the presiding judge and the jury to save her son.

Following her testimony, Xinnia Zapata, a family friend who took the stand while wearing a cotton mask, told similar stories of dysfunctional adults, violence, and poverty.

“I’ve seen what his mother and other adults have done to him,” she said through an interpreter. “But everybody shut the door on him, and I know that he is not the boy that is sitting over there.”

Banegas was just 18 years old when he shot and killed Hollywood Police Officer Yandy Chirino in the Emerald Hills neighborhood on Oct. 17, 2021.

Chirino was responding to possible burglary calls when he got into a scuffle with Banegas, who is now 23. Chirino suffered two gunshot wounds and was taken to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

He has since pleaded guilty to this charge, and it’s up to the jury to decide whether or not he should be sentenced to life in prison without parole or if he should die by lethal injection.

“My son isn’t perfect, and I beg you to spare his life. He has psychological problems, and I ask for forgiveness on behalf of my son,” said Villanueva Pineda in Spanish. “Please don’t take my son’s life. Give him another chance, because what happened was an accident. My son has never been inhuman. He has always been a very humble person, and I ask the judge to please spare his life.”

Additional members of Banegas’ family and loved ones are expected to take the stand as they try to convince the presiding jury to recommend life in prison.

Chirino’s family also provided emotional impact statements in recent days.

If the jury recommends death, it would have to be eight of the 12 jurors, and only then can the judge sentence him to death in the state of Florida.