Suspected burglar shot by Miami Lakes homeowner during attempted break-in, police say
MIAMI – A suspected burglar has been hospitalized after being shot by a homeowner while attempting to break into a South Florida residence on Sunday morning.
A large police presence was at the scene as detectives investigated the shooting near 18182 NW 91st St. in Miami Lakes.
The handcuffed suspect was airlifted to Ryder Trauma Center for treatment. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Alfonso Nieto told CBS News Miami heard a commotion in his neighbor's backyard on Saturday night.
"I hear a woman screaming 'No no no, no no no,'" he said.
Then, he heard a gunshot. Right now, Miami-Dade Police told CBS News Miami that someone was trying to break into the home.
"Then the shot came. And what I hear is they shot the guy in the leg," Nieto said.
Miami-Dade Police said the homeowner shot a person who was trying to break into his house.
Ofelia Martinez thought she heard some loud noise Saturday night and woke up to the crime scene tape just outside her door.
"We're worried now," Martinez said. "We don't know where that suspect came from what was his intentions, if he knew the person or not."
Nieto told CBS News Miami this is the first time he's ever seen a police presence on his street, but he's vouching for his neighbor.
"He's a really good guy," he said. "He's been so helpful with us in our house. If we need something, he's helpful."
Miami-Dade Police have not identified the homeowner or suspect at this time as they continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
