Miami, Florida – A person suspected of setting a fire at a residential building in Miami and shooting a worker has been taken into custody, according to authorities.
The fire at the Temple Court Apartments was reported by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez on Monday morning, sparking a response from over 125 firefighters who battled the blaze for around eight hours. During a press briefing on Monday evening, the mayor announced the apprehension of the suspect.
Responding firefighters displayed great bravery, rescuing over 40 individuals, some of whom were saved from their balconies. The mayor praised their heroic efforts, highlighting the seven ladder rescues that were conducted during the operation.
An explosion occurred after the evacuation, marking the first three-alarm fire in Miami in 25 years, as confirmed by Mayor Suarez. Initial responders discovered a man shot inside the building, who was then transported to a local hospital in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the torso.
The property’s management company, Atlantic Housing Foundation, expressed shock and sadness over the incident, describing it as an isolated event. All residents of the complex, predominantly elderly individuals, have been located and ensured to be safe.
Authorities have not released any information regarding the suspect involved in the incident. The cause of the fire, which was found on the third floor of the wooden-framed building, remains under investigation.
During the incident, three firefighters were taken to the hospital for evaluation, with two already being released by Monday afternoon. Additionally, a resident was hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
In response to the displacement of 43 residents, the property management has arranged temporary accommodation at a hotel for the next two weeks. The investigation is ongoing, with the police leading efforts to determine the cause of the events.