Revelers enjoy themselves as they dance in the street during the annual Calle Ocho celebration March 16, 2008 in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, Florida. The event is billed as the largest Hispanic festival in the nation. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
South Florida Crime
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Security was a top priority as Miami police kept a watchful eye over the thousands who showed up for the city’s biggest street festival on Sunday.
Miami Fire Rescue Crews said they responded to 32 calls during the Calle Ocho festival and took five people to the hospital including a man who had been shot.
“I seen a man run down the street and he’s yelling ‘ow, ow ow’” said Regina Lavagnino, who was visiting from Michigan.
“He collapsed on 10th Avenue and 8th street after he realized he had a puddle of blood coming from his buttocks area so we’re trying to determine if he was shot here or several blocks away,” said Miami police spokesman Sgt. Freddie Cruz. “We’re asking all witnesses out of thousands that are here to please come forward with any and all info so we can capture person or persons responsible for this crime.”
The injured man, who was in 20s, was taken to the Ryder Trauma Center where he was listed as stable. Another person who was stabbed is also expected to recover. Lt. Ignatius Carroll of Miami Fire Rescue said the injuries were not life-threatening.
Police patrolled on foot and bikes.
“Our objective is to let everyone enjoy the festivities here -the Calle Ocho parade, but in a peaceful manner,” said Cruz.
He added that more than a million people attended Calle Ocho and “All in all, I think our day was pretty calm.”
