Two people are dead and seven others were injured, including a police officer, in a shooting at CityPlace Doral early Saturday, officials said.
According to Miami-Dade Police Information Officer Alvaro Zabaleta, at about 3:30 a.m. there was a dispute at Martini Bar at CityPlace Doral when a security guard intervened.
That is when police said the shooter took out a firearm and shot and killed the security guard, identified by his family as George Castellanos.
Get Tri-state area news delivered to your inbox.> Sign up for NBC New York's News Headlines newsletter.
One officer of the City of Doral was shot in the lower extremity and was taken to the hospital. He has since been released.
According to police, two Doral officers fired their weapons and that´s how the shooter was shot and killed at the scene.
Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez called this "an extremely disappointing day in our community."
U.S. & World
A total of six bystanders were also shot. Among them were two women and four men.
One of the men and one of the women were taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Doral's Mayor Christi Fraga told NBC6 she's called a special meeting next week where they will discuss how to move forward regarding nightclubs in Doral.
"We will look to the evidence that points us to the right decision to make sure our community stays safe."
The shooting comes one year after Doral Police conducted an active shooter drill aimed at preparing their officers for this type of situation.
CityPlace Doral issued a statement in response to Saturday morning's shooting.
"Our thoughts are with all those involved," the statement said.
"The safety of our guests is always our top priority, and we have put a number of additional security measures in place. At this time, the south parking garage and the onsite retail surrounding the Plaza Fountain areas are closed. We anticipate that the north side of the development will open at 6pm today. Thank you to the City of Doral law enforcement who were onsite and acted swiftly. We are fully cooperating with The City of Doral Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and other agencies as the incident is being investigated."
Martini Bar Ownership also issued a statement following the shooting.
“Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that unfolded at our venue early this morning that took the life of a dedicated security guard and injured several others," the statement said.
"Our staff, patrons, and this community are like family to us, and we are completely shaken by this senseless act of violence. We’re working diligently to ensure that all those affected by this feel supported in every way possible. We are conducting our own internal investigation, as well as cooperating fully with all authorities. This trauma will be felt deeply by us all for a long time to come, and we are here for our community today, and always.”
This is a developing story. Check back with NBC6 for updates.
