Miami-Dade County Police Department’s Chief, Alfredo Freddy Ramirez III, is currently in critical but stable condition after a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident occurred following a domestic dispute at a Tampa hotel, according to authorities.
Ramirez, 52, injured himself on Interstate 75 in Riverview, a Tampa suburb, on Sunday. Fortunately, no one else was hurt during the incident. The chief was attending the 2023 Florida Sheriff’s Association’s Summer Conference at the Marriott Waterside Hotel with his wife at the time.
Officers from the Tampa Police Department responded to a domestic dispute between Ramirez and his wife earlier on Sunday. Despite their conversation with Ramirez and his wife, where Ramirez denied pointing a gun or posing a threat, there was no evidence of immediate danger or criminal activity. Consequently, Ramirez was released at the scene.
However, shortly after leaving the hotel, Ramirez pulled over on the southbound lane of I-75 and inflicted a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He suffered serious head injuries and was promptly transported to a Tampa hospital.
Following the incident, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava announced that Stephanie V. Daniels would serve as interim director for the Miami-Dade Police Department, while JD Patterson would assume the role of interim chief of public safety until further notice.
Throughout the traumatic event, Ramirez’s family has received an outpouring of support from the community. The mayor expressed gratitude for the support and updated citizens that Ramirez had undergone surgery and was in stable condition.
Sheriff Chad Chronister of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office extended compassion and concern for Ramirez, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health issues. He stated that mental health transcends boundaries and called for those in crisis to receive the help they need.
The incident involving Chief Ramirez serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially within law enforcement agencies. As the investigation continues, it is essential to maintain a balanced view and consider the various perspectives surrounding the incident.
In the meantime, the Miami-Dade County Police Department and the community will rally together to provide unwavering support for Chief Ramirez and his family during this challenging time.
