South Florida authorities have released surveillance footage capturing the precise moment when a man opened fire in broad daylight outside a café in Hialeah.
Following the incident, 36-year-old suspect Daniel Odio Suárez was apprehended as he attempted to flee the country on a flight bound for Havana.
A Heated Argument Escalates to Violence
The shooting occurred on Sunday morning, around 10:30 a.m., in front of La Lunita café, located at the 2200 block of West 8th Court, a popular spot for local residents.
According to the police report, the event started with a disagreement between Odio Suárez and the victim inside the establishment. The verbal quarrel quickly escalated, spilling out into the parking lot.
A security guard witnessed the events and reported that the altercation turned violent when Odio Suárez brandished a firearm. The surveillance footage shows the assailant chasing the victim around a Mercedes-Benz van before firing at least three shots.
Injuries and Emergency Transport
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found with several gunshot wounds to the legs. Medical records indicate the individual sustained three injuries: one in the left thigh fracturing the femur, another in the left calf, and a third in the front of the right leg causing a tibia fracture.
Due to the severity of the injuries, the victim was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he remains hospitalized. Although his life is not at risk, authorities have not released further details regarding his medical condition.
Investigators at the crime scene recovered three spent shell casings, corroborating witness statements and the surveillance video.
The Airport Getaway and Foiled Escape
After the attack, Daniel Odio Suárez fled the scene in his vehicle. Police managed to track the car, which was discovered hours later in a garage at Miami International Airport (MIA). This crucial lead enabled law enforcement to locate the suspect, who had already boarded an American Airlines flight to Havana.
In a coordinated effort, Hialeah Police and the Department of Homeland Security executed a swift operation. The aircraft, already en route to Cuba, was redirected back to Miami airport before leaving U.S. airspace.
According to the official report, Odio Suárez had purchased his ticket for $406, seemingly intending to escape justice. Once on the ground, he was arrested without incident and taken to the Hialeah Police Department.
Confession and Legal Proceedings
During interrogation, the accused reportedly provided what authorities described as a "full confession" to the shooting. Odio Suárez has been formally charged with second-degree attempted murder and is currently held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.
On Monday afternoon, a judge denied him bail during his court appearance, meaning the suspect will remain in custody as the legal process unfolds against him.
An Unprecedented Operation and Ongoing Investigation
The case has drawn public attention not only due to the violence in a busy urban area but also because of the rapid response by authorities to prevent the suspect's escape. Diverting an international commercial flight to capture a suspect is an extraordinary measure, highlighting the gravity of the charges.
So far, authorities have not disclosed the reason behind the argument between Odio Suárez and the victim. Additionally, no further information about their relationship or the background of the altercation that led to the shooting has been released.
Key Details About the Hialeah Shooting Incident
What prompted the shooting in Hialeah?
The incident began with a verbal dispute between Daniel Odio Suárez and the victim inside a café, which escalated into a violent confrontation in the parking lot.
How was the suspect apprehended?
Authorities tracked the suspect's vehicle to Miami International Airport and coordinated with Homeland Security to divert a flight back to Miami, where Odio Suárez was arrested.
What are the charges against Daniel Odio Suárez?
Odio Suárez has been charged with second-degree attempted murder and remains in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.