West Miami homicide investigation opens after unidentified man found fatally shot on Southwest 8th Street

Police response reported Friday evening

A homicide investigation is underway after a man was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound in West Miami on Friday, February 20, 2026, authorities said. Officers from the City of Miami Police Department responded at approximately 6:20 p.m. to a reported shooting in the 6300 block of Southwest 8th Street.

When officers arrived, they located an adult male suffering from what was described as an apparent gunshot wound. Miami Fire Rescue pronounced the man dead at the scene. As of Saturday morning, the victim’s identity had not been released.

What is known, and what remains unclear

Investigators had not publicly released information on a possible suspect, a weapon description, or the circumstances that led to the shooting. Authorities also had not confirmed whether the victim was shot at the location where he was found or whether the scene was connected to any earlier incident elsewhere.

The location is along a heavily traveled commercial corridor that runs through several nearby neighborhoods and municipalities in Miami-Dade County. Given the area’s mix of businesses, residential streets, and steady vehicle traffic, detectives typically assess whether any camera footage, witness statements, or physical evidence can clarify the timeline of events.

How homicide investigations typically proceed

In the initial hours after a fatal shooting, investigators generally work to establish a basic sequence: when the victim was shot, who first called for help, whether the victim had any known connections to the area, and what movements occurred immediately before and after the gunfire. Detectives also seek to identify witnesses and secure any relevant video from nearby buildings or vehicles, while crime-scene personnel document and collect physical evidence.

Authorities described the case as an active homicide investigation and said it remains ongoing.

Public information expected to evolve

Key details that commonly emerge as an investigation develops include confirmation of the victim’s identity following next-of-kin notification, a determination of whether the incident was targeted or random, and any suspect or vehicle descriptions. Police may also clarify whether multiple shots were fired and whether there were additional victims or related calls in the area.

At-a-glance

• Date and time: Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, about 6:20 p.m.

• Location: 6300 block of SW 8th Street, West Miami area

• Victim: Adult male, not publicly identified

• Status: Pronounced dead at the scene; investigation ongoing

Miami.news will continue reporting as authorities release additional verified information.