Man found shot, killed at Pembroke Pines apartment complex

Family members believe gunman followed victim home from work

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. – A 23-year-old man was found shot and killed early Tuesday inside an apartment complex in Pembroke Pines, authorities said.

Residents of the Bella Grand community in the 10300 block of Northwest 8th Street heard gunshots around 1 a.m. Tuesday and called police. When officers arrived, they found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds. 

The victim's father, James Smith, identified him as 23-year-old Kadeem Smith.

Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Good kid. That's my baby boy and last time I spoke with him was two days ago, and he told me, 'Pops, I'm glad you're coming down to see me.' Now I'll never get the chance to see him again,” James Smith said.

Family members said Smith had just arrived home from work at a Cooper's Hawk restaurant when he was killed. His brother said Smith said he was afraid someone was following him home in a car.

Family members said Smith was sitting on his patio when the gunman approached him from a grassy area behind his apartment and opened fire. Neighbors said they saw a man running from the scene.

Family members said Smith joined the U.S. Army after graduating from high school and served four years, continuing a family tradition.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Pembroke Pines Police Department at 954-431-2200 or Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.


About the Authors:

Christian De La Rosa joined Local 10 News in April 2017 after spending time as a reporter and anchor in Atlanta, San Diego, Orlando and Panama City Beach.