Florida police officer dies days after being shot while chasing robbery suspect
MIAMI - Update (Aug. 17): The Miami-Dade Police Department confirmed Wednesday night that Officer Cesar "Echy" Echaverry has died, days after he was shot during a confrontation with an armed robbery suspect in South Florida.
"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Officer Cesar "Echy" Echaverry. Surrounded by loved ones, Echy succumbed to his injuries after a brief battle for his life," Director Alfredo "Freddy" Ramirez III said in a statement.
Original story:
Miami-Dade police say one of their officers is in grave condition after being shot late Monday night. The officer was reportedly chasing a robbery suspect at the time.
WSVN reports that officers responded to the area of Northwest 17th Avenue and 67th Street around 8:15 p.m. According to police, the suspect tried to escape and crashed into a civilian vehicle. A shootout followed the crash and police said the suspect died on scene. The officer was rushed to an area hospital.
The injured officer, identified as Cesar "Echy" Echaverry, is currently in critical condition.
Police have not confirmed the identities of the suspect. MDPD took to Twitter to ask for prayers.
"One of our officers was shot during an altercation and was transported to Ryder Trauma Center in critical condition," the tweet read. "We ask for your prayers."
Florida Congresswoman Val Demings tweeted that she just met with Liberty City leaders on Monday night to discuss how they can keep the public safe and build stronger neighborhoods.
"I'm praying for the officer, his family, the police department, and his entire community."
Orlando police also sent their condolences, tweeting on Tuesday, "We stand with our brothers and sisters at @MiamiDadePD. Sending prayers!"
Check back for updates.