MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — An 18-year-old man was fatally shot during a recreational game Monday evening at Naranja Park, leaving the Miami-Dade community shocked and mourning his sudden loss. Authorities have identified the victim as Flavio Alejandro Morales.
According to Detective Joseph R. Peguero Rivera of the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office, Morales was participating in a sporting activity when a verbal dispute broke out among those present. The incident occurred at Naranja Park, located at 14150 SW 264 Street, and quickly escalated to violence.
Homicide detectives reported that during the altercation, one of the individuals involved brandished a firearm and shot Morales. The suspect immediately fled the scene on foot, leaving the young man critically wounded. Witnesses called 911, and emergency crews rushed to the park.
Deputies and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue personnel arrived shortly after 7:05 p.m. and provided emergency care. Morales was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition, but despite all efforts to save him, he was later pronounced dead. His death marks another tragic instance of gun violence impacting young lives in South Florida.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office has launched a full homicide investigation, working to uncover the details surrounding the fatal encounter. Authorities have not yet released a description of the suspect or what exactly led to the argument that turned deadly.
Community members and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information to step forward. Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers is accepting anonymous tips at 305-471-8477, and officials hope someone can help identify the shooter and bring justice to the grieving family.
The heartbreaking loss of Flavio Alejandro Morales has left a deep void in his community. What was meant to be a friendly game at a public park ended in senseless tragedy, underscoring the urgent need to address rising violence among youth. The investigation remains active.