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Family Makes Plea In Parking Lot Murder

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The family of a South Florida man, who was shot and killed by a robber who ambushed him in a parking lot, has made a public plea for help.

On August 21st around 4:20 p.m., Miguel Pilotos, 71, was getting into his car in the parking lot of the Top Value Supermarket in the 13900 block of NW 27th Avenue.

A person on a bicycle rode up to Pilotos, pulled out a gun and shot him.

"The family wants justice for this person and the family needs help from the community," said nephew Roberto Pilotos.

The crime was captured on surveillance video and there was also video of him inside the supermarket prior to the shooting.

Police say the gunman appeared to be casing the parking lot looking for a victim.

Miguel Pilotos Murder Suspect Surveillance Pic
Suspect seen on surveillance video in the murder of Miguel Pilotos (Source: Miami-Dade Police Dept.)

"Ultimately it appears he selected Mr. Pilotos as a victim.  He stalked him as he exited the store, stalked him through the parking lot, and ultimately approached Mr. Pilotos in what appears to be an attempt at robbery, subsequently shot and killed Mr. Pilotos," explained Miami-Dade Police Homicide Detective Nick Pimentel.

His widow and family members spoke out Thursday morning in hopes that someone knows something about the gunman and will come forward.

His wife spoke in Spanish and was translated by her nephew.

"She explained in Spanish to you guys how she feels. She stay alone now in the house. It's not going to be easy to take the time to recover from this situation," explained Roberto Pilotos. "The community recognizes this person, call the police let them know.  We appreciate this information."

If you know anything about the suspect or the crime, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.

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