A Cuban national has been charged with the murder of his wife in Hialeah Gardens, Miami-Dade, after allegedly causing an explosion in their car following a heated argument. Although the homicide is just coming to light now, it took place around 6:00 a.m. on February 1st at Northwest 114th Terrace, near the couple's home.
Initial investigations revealed that the victim and the accused—identified as 50-year-old Noel Ruiz Mestre—were married. Their relationship had recently been strained, possibly due to allegations of the woman's infidelity.
Witnesses reported that the couple had been driving when the car stopped in the middle of the street. A loud argument ensued inside the vehicle, and the woman attempted to exit but was unable to do so. Shortly thereafter, Ruiz Mestre exited the car and intentionally triggered an explosion inside the vehicle.
The terrifying blast awakened neighbors, who described the noise as a horrifying boom. Surveillance cameras captured the exact moment the car exploded. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office (MDSO) confirmed that the explosion was deliberately caused using a homemade explosive device or an unknown incendiary device.
Firefighters arrived to find the car engulfed in flames. In the front passenger seat, they discovered the charred remains of the victim, unrecognizable due to severe burns.
After fleeing the scene, Ruiz Mestre returned home, where he discarded his burnt clothes. In what appeared to be a suicide attempt, he stabbed himself multiple times in the abdomen before calling 911 to report his injuries.
The suspect remains hospitalized, facing serious charges. He was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital in critical condition, receiving treatment for his injuries and burns. Authorities have already filed charges against him for second-degree murder and first-degree arson.
The victim's identity has not yet been officially released. Residents of Hialeah Gardens are in shock, with many describing the couple as seemingly normal and kind individuals. The case remains under investigation, including the exact type of explosive used. Ruiz Mestre is expected to be taken into custody once he is released from medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hialeah Gardens Incident
What happened in Hialeah Gardens involving Noel Ruiz Mestre?
Noel Ruiz Mestre is accused of murdering his wife by causing an explosion in their vehicle after a heated argument. The incident occurred on February 1st in Hialeah Gardens, Miami-Dade.
What charges is Noel Ruiz Mestre facing?
Ruiz Mestre faces charges of second-degree murder and first-degree arson related to the explosion and death of his wife.
Have authorities released the victim's identity?
As of now, the authorities have not officially released the identity of the victim involved in the incident.
What is the status of Noel Ruiz Mestre?
Noel Ruiz Mestre remains hospitalized in critical condition, receiving treatment for self-inflicted injuries. He will be taken into custody once he is medically cleared.