Miami Police Investigating Deadly Shooting in Coconut Grove
MIAMI — A Wednesday evening shooting in the heart of Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood has left one man dead and another injured, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a full-scale police investigation.
According to Officer Michael Vega, spokesman for the Miami Police Department, the shooting occurred at approximately 6 p.m. near the intersection of Southwest 37th Avenue and Southwest 33rd Street. The incident unfolded after police received a ShotSpotter alert, an automated gunfire detection system that allows law enforcement to respond within minutes of shots being fired.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered 30-year-old Robert Denardes Whittle Jr. suffering from severe gunshot wounds. Miami Fire Rescue personnel immediately rendered aid and transported Whittle to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His death marks yet another life lost to gun violence in the Miami area this year.
A second individual sustained minor injuries during the shooting but refused medical treatment at the scene, according to Vega. The identity of that person has not been released, and police have not disclosed whether they were a bystander or directly involved in the incident.
At this time, detectives have not confirmed a motive for the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified. The investigation remains active, with officers canvassing the area for witnesses, surveillance footage, and other evidence that may help piece together the events leading up to the deadly gunfire.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Tipsters can remain completely anonymous by calling 305-471-8477.
Robert Denardes Whittle Jr.’s death has left family, friends, and community members grieving the loss of a young man whose life ended far too soon. Social media has already begun to fill with messages of remembrance and calls for justice, reflecting the deep pain his passing has caused.
As detectives continue their search for answers, the Coconut Grove neighborhood — a community known for its vibrant culture and close-knit feel — is left reeling from the violence that claimed yet another life. Police stress that community cooperation will be vital in solving this case and bringing closure to Whittle’s loved ones.
For now, the intersection where the shooting took place stands as a grim reminder of the suddenness with which tragedy can strike, and of the urgent need for answers in the wake of loss.
