Mail carrier becomes intended target of burglars making getaway

1 of 2 burglars open fire at postal employee in southwest Miami-Dade

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – One of two men opened fire at a postal employee Thursday morning after he encountered them fleeing a burglary, authorities said.

Miami-Dade police were called to reports of shots fired in a neighborhood near Southwest 92nd Avenue and Southwest 90th Street.

It was there that a mail carrier said he witnessed two men jumping a fence as a burglar alarm was sounding.

"He heard the alarm go off, but didn't really think much of it," U.S. Postal Inspection Service agent Ivan Rodriguez said.

As the mailman got into his vehicle and started to drive away, he encountered those same men down the street.

"The two gentlemen (who) he had witnessed jump over the side of the fence and run into a vehicle and take off were actually right in front of him," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez said the passenger extended his body halfway out of the window and opened fire at the mailman. He wasn't injured.

Police said they're looking for a black SUV with possible damage to the driver's side rear bumper.

If apprehended, the men could face federal charges.

"While he was conducting his official duties, he became the intended target," Rodriguez said.

A $20,000 reward is being offered by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for information leading to an arrest and conviction. A $3,000 reward is also being offered by Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers.

"We're asking for the help of the community," Detective Daniel Ferrin said.


About the Authors:

Peter Burke returned for a second stint of duty at Local 10 News in February 2014.

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.