Cuban shot dead in Hialeah; the attacker has been arrested

Yoendris Campos, a 33-year-old Cuban, was murdered in Hialeah. The assailant, 55-year-old Pedro Blanco, has been arrested and is facing first-degree murder charges.

Yoendris Campos, a 33-year-old Cuban, was murdered in HialeahPhoto © YouTube Screenshot / CBS Miami

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Yoendris Campos, a 33-year-old Cuban, was shot and killed this Tuesday afternoon in an apartment building in Hialeah, Florida. The police confirmed that the suspected assailant was arrested at the scene.

The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. on the block of 710 East 9th Street, near the intersection with 7th Avenue. Campos, who was visiting a friend's apartment, was caught off guard by a neighbor who knocked on the door and then returned armed to shoot him.

According to the Hialeah Police Department, the attacker has been identified as Pedro Blanco, a 55-year-old man facing charges of first-degree murder. Police spokesperson José Torres explained to Local 10 News that “Blanco approached the apartment where Campos was, knocked on the door, and after receiving no response, returned to his own. At that moment, Campos opened the door to see who had knocked, and then Blanco came back and shot once, causing his death.”

Campos was declared dead at the scene. According to statements to Telemundo 51, his cousin Braulio said, “he just came to visit, they were going to fix a car, nothing more. They knocked on the door, and when he opened it, that man shot him. Nobody knew him… that guy is crazy or something, but to me, it wasn't any madness. That man has to pay for what he did.”

The relative also stated that Yoendris was "the head of the family" and that he had a young daughter who lives in Cuba. In a conversation with CBS News Miami, he added: "He was everything to me. He was my cousin, but he taught me everything."

Campos had emigrated to the United States from El Vedado, in Havana, seven years ago, local media confirmed.

Residents of the building reported hearing a single gunshot and expressed fear at the police presence following the incident. One resident told CBS News Miami: “I saw many police officers running and going up to the apartment above. I didn't dare to go outside. It gave me chills. Luckily, my son was at home.”

The police classified the incident as isolated and stated that it does not pose a risk to the community. “This is an isolated incident, resulting from what appears to be a dispute between neighbors. There is no security risk to the public at this time,” clarified Officer José Torres.

The case is still under investigation, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.

Frequently asked questions about the shooting in Hialeah and violence in Cuban communities in the U.S.

What happened to Yoendris Campos in Hialeah?

Yoendris Campos, a 33-year-old Cuban, was shot dead in an apartment building in Hialeah, Florida. The incident occurred when a neighbor, identified as Pedro Blanco, shot him after knocking on the door of the apartment where Campos was visiting. Campos was pronounced dead at the scene, and the assailant was arrested by the police.

Who is the assailant of Yoendris Campos and what charges does he face?

The attacker is Pedro Blanco, a 55-year-old man. He has been arrested and faces charges of first-degree murder. The incident has been described by the police as an isolated dispute between neighbors, assuring that it does not pose a risk to the community at large.

What is the impact of violence on the Cuban community in the United States?

Violence in the Cuban community in the U.S. has raised concerns due to several recent incidents. Cases of domestic violence and disputes among neighbors have resulted in shootings and stabbings, creating fear and insecurity. Although some authorities contend that these events are isolated incidents, the frequency of such occurrences underscores the need for more effective measures to prevent violence and protect communities.

What measures are being taken to prevent violence in Hialeah?

The authorities in Hialeah urge the community to cooperate with investigations and report any suspicious activity. Additionally, the importance of resolving disputes peacefully has been emphasized, and the use of weapons to settle conflicts should be avoided. The Hialeah police continue to investigate cases of violence and work closely with the community to enhance safety.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.