MIAMI, FL – A teenager was injured in a shocking highway shooting Tuesday night on the Palmetto Expressway. The 15-year-old, who attends high school in Fort Myers, was traveling with her family when gunfire erupted, sending her to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The incident unfolded around 9 p.m. as the family car moved eastbound near Northwest 47th Avenue. The girl’s mother, Cassandra Morgan, reported that a black car was driving erratically, prompting her to honk the horn. The situation quickly escalated when the other vehicle’s passenger rolled down the window and fired shots.
The bullet pierced the windshield, striking the teenager, identified as Tijani Reid, who was seated in the front. Morgan’s two other children, aged six and nine, were in the back seat but were unharmed. Tijani described feeling a burning sensation where she was hit.
Following the shooting, Tijani was rushed to the hospital, and traffic came to a standstill for miles as authorities responded. Fortunately, her injuries were not life-threatening, and she has since been discharged.
The Florida Highway Patrol is searching for the suspect vehicle, believed to be an older model black Chevy Malibu, possibly with a broken blue fog light. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the potential danger the shooter poses to the community.
Morgan expressed her disbelief and concern, urging the public to help identify the suspect. “That could be your child,” she said, highlighting the randomness and potential tragedy of the situation.
As the investigation continues, troopers are working tirelessly to track down the vehicle and bring those responsible to justice. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information is encouraged to contact the authorities.