Woman Shot in Neck on I-95 Caught in Alleged Crossfire
MIAMI — A woman driving southbound on Interstate 95 was critically injured Monday evening in Miami after being struck by a bullet in what authorities believe was a crossfire between other vehicles.
The shooting occurred around 7 p.m. near NW 13th Street, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The victim, whose name has not been released, was driving a black Lexus SUV with her 5-year-old son in the backseat when at least one shot was fired from a white Honda sedan, investigators said.
The woman was struck in the neck and taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital Ryder Trauma Center, where she remains in critical condition. Her son was unharmed during the incident.
Caught in the Crossfire
Willard Shepard, the victim’s attorney and friend, said the woman described the incident as a result of gunfire exchanged between other vehicles.
“She was simply caught in a crossfire,” Shepard told reporters. “This woman is a public servant and a devoted mother who was driving home when gunfire erupted. It’s fortunate her son was in the back seat and unharmed, but both of them could have lost their lives.”
Shepard emphasized the need for increased highway surveillance to prevent similar tragedies. “We have the technology to install more cameras on our highways to protect innocent people. This incident underscores how important that is.”
Investigation Underway
FHP Trooper Joe Sanchez confirmed that investigators are actively working to identify the shooter and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“At this time, we don’t know why this happened,” Sanchez said. “Somebody must have seen something, and we’re urging anyone with information to come forward.”
Authorities are asking witnesses or anyone with details about the white Honda sedan to contact FHP or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).
Community Outrage and Safety Concerns
The shooting has sparked outrage and concern among community members and local leaders. Shepard called the incident a reminder of the dangers posed by gun violence.
“This should never have happened in our community,” he said. “These individuals are a danger to the public and must be taken off the streets. We must come together as a community to ensure this does not happen again.”
FHP reiterated the need for public assistance in identifying those responsible, stressing the importance of maintaining safety on South Florida’s busy highways.
The investigation is ongoing.
