MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Police have identified the suspect accused of shooting at a Miami-Dade police officer.
Miami-Dade police Tuesday identified the suspect as Jonathan Gilbert, 19.
According to police, Gilbert was acting as a lookout about 1 p.m. in the area of Northwest 71st Street and 16th Avenue, which is known for drug trafficking.
Police said an undercover officer was patrolling the area in an unmarked white Ford Expedition when he attempted to make contact with Gilbert.
Police said Gilbert opened fire at the SUV. At least one bullet struck the vehicle.
Police said four men fled the scene in a brown older model Chevy Impala with red doors.
The officer drove safely away to Northwest 14th Place and was not injured.
"Our concern right now is the safety of the community," Det. Robin Pinkard said. "Anyone (who) at 1 o'clock in the afternoon will open fire at a vehicle is someone that we need off the streets."
"The streets are getting meaner day by day and the bad guys know that we're working short-handed, so they know they have the upper hand and then we see situations like this," president of the Miami-Dade Police Benevolent Association, John Rivera said. "Thank God we're not burying another police officer.
Anyone with information about Gilbert's whereabouts is asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Police warn the public that Gilbert should be considered armed and dangerous.
Gilbert is expected to be charged with attempted first-degree murder in the shooting.
Gilbert has been arrested in Miami-Dade County before, including on charges of cocaine possession and battery.
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