What to Know
- Willis Dukes was arrested and charged on multiple counts in connection with Thristan Hanson's death in Miami Gardens
- Police believe Dukes could possibly be responsible for the recent rash of shootings in the area
A man was arrested and charged Wednesday in connection with the slaying of a 24-year-old man after a rash of shootings in Miami Gardens, according to police.
Willis Dukes, 23, allegedly shot and killed Thristan Hanson at his home while he was celebrating Father's Day with his family, according to the Miami Gardens Police Department.
Dukes was arrested and charged with first degree murder and with three counts of attempted first degree murder. He sustained gunshot wounds during the shooting and was hospitalized before police charged him.
This is the second arrest in a rash of shootings from the last 11 days. Police believe it's possible Dukes may be connected to the other shootings.
Miami Gardens mayor Oliver Gilbert addressed the recent crime wave in Wednesday's commissions meeting.
"The kids are engaged in what is essentially a gang war that we're trying to stop right now," he said.
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The community has a big role in preventing violence, Gilbert added.
"If you don't say something, we will never be the safest possible community if these kids leave our living rooms go to our schools and end up on our streets," Gilbert said.
Anyone with additional information about the shootings should contact Detective H. Schneider at 305-474-6473 ext. 1710, or Henry.Schneider@mgpdfl.org. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
