Andrew Pestano

‘Open Carry' Fishermen Allowed to Remain on Miami Beach Pier

The Miami Beach Police Department said six armed people fishing at the South Pointe Pier who are part of the "Open Carry" gun rights group acted "within the law" and were allowed to remain.

The South Pointe Pier was temporarily shut down following a report of persons with weapons.

The incident occurred at the pier near 1 Washington Avenue on Sunday.

A person who was detained by police at the pier told NBC 6 that he and others are part of the group "Open Carry" that seeks to educate people about open carry laws in Florida.

People detained by police were later released. 

"Interview of the individuals revealed the fisherman were relying on Florida State Statute 790.25 (3) as the basis to openly carry their firearms," the Miami Beach Police Department said in a statement. "After reviewing the documents it was determined they were acting within the law. The fishermen have been allowed to stay."

Police said it assigned officers to the pier while they fishermen remain "out of an abundance of caution," adding it encourages visitors to use other parts of the park.

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