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Night Watchman, Hurt In Police Involved Shooting, Dies

LAUDERHILL (CBSMiami) – A night watchman who was shot by Lauderhill Police who may have thought he was an intruder has died.

Earl Brown, 73, was shot on Sept. 27th after officers were sent to International Global Metals recycling center on the 1700 block of NW 31st Avenue to check out reports of an intruder.

Three Lauderhill officers spotted a man carrying a weapon and opened fire, said police.

Police said Brown was armed but was not wearing any type of clothing that identified him as a security guard.

A co-worker said Brown worked at the facility for 35 years.

Police said because Brown had a firearm, the officers perceived him as a threat.

Brown was taken to Broward Health Medical Center where he underwent surgery and was expected to recover.

However, he suffered two heart attacks in the hospital and later died, Lauderhill police confirmed.

The three officers involved in the shooting were put on paid administrative leave which is standard procedure.

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