Investigation launched after Miami-Dade deputy fires during West Little River traffic stop of suspected stolen vehicle

What happened in Northwest Miami-Dade

An investigation is underway after a Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputy discharged a service weapon during a traffic stop in West Little River, in the area of Northwest 17th Avenue and Northwest 95th Street. The incident occurred on Sunday, December 28, 2025, shortly before 6 p.m., after the deputy received an alert tied to a suspected stolen vehicle.

Authorities said the deputy located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. As the deputy approached, an altercation ensued, and the deputy fired, striking the vehicle. The vehicle then fled and was found abandoned nearby a short time later. No injuries to the deputy were reported.

What investigators say was recovered and what remains unknown

After the vehicle was located, a firearm was found inside, authorities said. The driver fled the scene and remained at large at the time law enforcement released initial public details.

Key questions have not been publicly resolved, including what specifically triggered the altercation, whether the driver displayed or used a weapon during the encounter, and the precise sequence of events leading to the deputy’s decision to fire. The deputy’s identity was not released in the initial statements.

How the investigation is being handled

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement assumed responsibility for the investigation, a standard process in Florida when an officer discharges a weapon during an incident. The external investigation typically focuses on establishing a detailed timeline, collecting evidence, and determining whether any criminal violations occurred.

Separately, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office has a defined role in reviewing officer-involved shootings: determining whether a criminal violation of Florida law occurred and whether any criminal responsibility can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. That review is distinct from questions of internal discipline or civil liability.

What the public can expect next

In cases involving firearm discharges by law enforcement, investigators generally collect physical evidence, conduct forensic review of the scene and vehicle, and interview involved personnel and potential witnesses. If available, video sources such as body-worn cameras, in-car video, and nearby surveillance footage can become central to reconstructing events, though release timelines vary.

• Incident location: NW 17th Avenue and NW 95th Street, West Little River
• Timeframe: shortly before 6 p.m., December 28, 2025
• Reported outcome: vehicle struck; suspect fled; firearm recovered inside the vehicle
• Investigating agency: Florida Department of Law Enforcement

The incident remains under active investigation, with authorities continuing efforts to identify and locate the fleeing driver.