BREAKING: Active Shooter Situation Unfolds at Southwest Miami-Dade Warehouse — Multiple People Shot, Tactical Units Deployed as Suspect Believed to Be Barricaded Inside
MIAMI-DADE, FL — A warehouse in Southwest Miami-Dade has become the scene of a large-scale emergency response following a shooting that broke out early Thursday afternoon. Authorities have confirmed that several individuals were injured during the incident, which continues to unfold as law enforcement officers work to secure the area and locate the shooter.
The Miami-Dade Police Department received reports of shots fired at approximately 1:00 p.m. in the 7300 block of Southwest 45th Street, a busy industrial zone near the Palmetto Expressway and Bird Road. The area, known for its concentration of warehouses and commercial businesses, was quickly swarmed by law enforcement after the first calls came in.
At Least Four Shot as Police Surround Warehouse
According to preliminary information from officials on the scene, at least four individuals have been shot. Emergency medical teams are currently on-site, providing immediate aid to the injured and preparing to transport them to area hospitals. The exact condition of the victims has not yet been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether any of the injuries are life-threatening.
The warehouse complex, now the center of a sprawling tactical operation, was placed under lockdown as authorities moved in to address the threat. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and then seeing a large law enforcement presence descend on the area.
Suspect Believed to Be Inside – Tactical Response Underway
Miami-Dade Police, assisted by the department’s elite Special Response Team (SRT) and the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, have taken command of the scene. Authorities believe the shooter may still be inside the warehouse facility, prompting a high-alert tactical sweep of the premises.
Aerial footage broadcast from news helicopters showed dozens of heavily armed officers in tactical gear surrounding the perimeter of the building. Law enforcement could be seen escorting workers and other individuals out of the warehouse complex, many with their hands raised above their heads in compliance with safety procedures.
Officers are currently going room by room through the facility to ensure no additional threats remain and to locate the suspect, who has not yet been publicly identified. The motive behind the shooting also remains unclear at this time.
Workers and Community in Shock
Employees from nearby businesses were seen evacuating or sheltering in place, with many describing scenes of chaos and fear as the incident unfolded. Some reported hearing gunfire, while others described frantically seeking cover inside their places of work.
“I was in the loading dock when I heard the first shots—at least five or six,” said one warehouse worker who asked not to be named. “Then everyone started yelling to get down, and we just waited until police came in. It was terrifying.”
Traffic in the surrounding area has been heavily impacted, with closures and diversions around the Palmetto Expressway and Bird Road to accommodate the ongoing police presence and emergency response. Local officials are urging drivers to avoid the area until further notice.
Investigation and Ongoing Response
Authorities have confirmed that the situation is still active, and the public is being urged to remain away from the area. The Miami-Dade Police Department has established a command post nearby and continues to coordinate with multiple law enforcement agencies.
As tactical units continue clearing the facility and searching for the suspect, investigators are beginning to piece together what led to the shooting. No further information about the suspect or potential motive has been released at this time.
The Miami-Dade community is now awaiting updates as authorities work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all involved and bring the situation to a close. Officials have promised to provide additional details during a press briefing once the scene has been secured and the immediate threat is over.
Stay with us for updates as more information becomes available.