Man Killed in Deputy-Involved Shooting Outside Walmart in Southwest Miami-Dade
MIAMI-DADE, Fla. — A man was fatally shot early Thursday morning outside a Walmart in Southwest Miami-Dade during what officials have described as a deputy-involved shooting, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO).
The incident occurred around 7:15 a.m. at the Walmart located along South Dixie Highway near Southwest 211th Street, where deputies were patrolling the area. Authorities said the confrontation began after store loss prevention officers alerted a deputy that a man was allegedly attempting to steal items inside the store.
Suspect Fled After Deputy Attempted to Stop Him
Investigators said the deputy attempted to make contact with the suspect, who immediately ran from the scene. A brief foot pursuit followed, leading to a physical struggle near the entrance of the store.
During the altercation, officials said the man displayed a weapon, which prompted the deputy to discharge his service firearm. The suspect was struck by gunfire and collapsed just outside the Walmart doors.
Paramedics were called to the scene, but the man was pronounced dead shortly afterward. His identity has not yet been released pending family notification.
Investigation Underway
Authorities confirmed that the deputy involved was not injured during the encounter. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has been called in to assist with the ongoing investigation, which will review all aspects of the shooting — including whether the suspect pointed or brandished a weapon before being shot.
Walmart remained closed for several hours Thursday morning as investigators processed the scene. Yellow police tape and evidence markers surrounded the parking area while detectives interviewed witnesses and reviewed security footage from both inside and outside the store.
Officials say more information will be released once the medical examiner’s report and body camera footage review are complete.
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