On Thursday, police confirmed the arrest of 60-year-old Juan Antonio Vera as suspect in connection with a fatal shooting at a homeless encampment near Miami Brightline station earlier this month. Vera faces both murder and attempted murder charges following this heinous crime.
Miami Police and Fire Rescue reported that the shooting took place near an encampment located along Northwest 6th and 8th streets, between Northwest 6th Street and 8th Streets. Officers responding to reports of gunfire found two victims — a male who had died immediately upon impact as well as another with gunshot injuries who sustained gunshot wounds from being hit with firearms at that location.
Abran Cumba has since been identified as the male victim; while, for treatment purposes, an injured female was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital; unfortunately her current condition remains unknown.
Authorities believe Vera fled after shooting, however upon investigation he was quickly identified and tracked down to Hillsborough County in central Florida where Miami Police worked in cooperation with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in arresting Vera without incident.
Investigators have yet to release details surrounding Vera’s motive and attack; nor have they disclosed whether she knew either victim prior to this violent encounter at the homeless encampment. Regardless, their exact details of violence remain under investigation.
This case has brought to light safety issues within homeless communities, especially in isolated or underserved locations. Advocates continue to push for increased support and outreach services for people experiencing homelessness who face greater risks of violence than most.
Vera will likely be extradited to Miami-Dade County on Friday in order to face formal charges related to her shooting incident, according to Miami police. They urge any additional witnesses who may provide valuable insight as the investigation unfolds. Contact us for Incident Management Today