In a tragic incident in Miami, Florida, a 10-year-old girl was killed by a stray bullet fired in celebration of the New Year. The Miami-Dade police department reported that Yanelis Munguia was out with her family near NW 27 Avenue and NW 21 Street when she collapsed shortly after midnight on New Year’s Day. Upon rushing to her aid, family members discovered a gunshot wound on the back of her head.
In a desperate attempt to save her life, they placed her in a car and began searching for a hospital while simultaneously dialing 911. Hialeah Fire Rescue intercepted the family near Palm Avenue and West Third Street, swiftly transporting the young girl to Jackson Ryder Trauma Center. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the medical team pronounced her dead upon arrival.
The Miami-Dade police department expressed their condolences via a social media post, stating, “We share the tragic loss of a 10-year-old girl, who was killed due to celebratory gunfire on New Year’s Day.” The post further emphasized the dangers of firing bullets into the air, reminding the public that “what goes up must come down.”
Yanelis had just turned 10 on December 26. Her family shared a heartwarming video of her playing with sparklers alongside her younger brother. Her grandfather, Ramon Valdizon, appealed to the public in an interview with a local ABC affiliate, urging them to learn from this tragedy and refrain from such dangerous celebratory practices.
The police are still investigating the incident, trying to identify the person who fired the fatal shot. Detective Andre Martin of the Miami-Dade police department expressed his frustration over the incident, emphasizing the dangers of firing a gun into the air. He lamented the loss of a young life and the grief of the parents who are now planning a funeral for their daughter.
Valdizon revealed that Yanelis’ mother blames herself for the incident, adding that their family home will never be the same. He expressed his own grief, stating, “I cannot stand to go in that house and not see her again.” The family is currently raising funds for Yanelis’ funeral, and anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers Miami.
In a separate incident in Central Florida, another life was claimed by celebratory gunfire. Carmen Rosa Neira Ochoa, a 56-year-old mother and grandmother, was rushed to the hospital after being shot shortly after midnight but succumbed to her injuries. Her family is urging the public to refrain from firing guns in celebration, highlighting the potential for tragic consequences.