(CMR) Director of the Miami-Dade Police Department Alfredo “Freddy” Ramirez (52) was hospitalized in critical but stable condition after shooting himself in the head following a dispute with his wife on Sunday.
According to reports, Ramirez was in Tampa for a law enforcement conference when the incident occurred.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass said during a news conference Monday that Tampa police had responded to a domestic dispute between Ramirez and his wife earlier Sunday at the hotel where the conference was being held.
Ramirez left the hotel and suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound after pulling over on Interstate 75.
“Law enforcement is a demanding and stressful career and occupation. And Director Ramirez has dedicated nearly 30 years of his life to public service and keeping the citizens of Miami-Dade safe. Today is a tragic day in Florida,” Glass said.
According to a Tampa police report, Ramirez had pointed a gun at himself during the argument Sunday, showing there were issues before the reported shooting.
“Our hearts are with Chief of Public Safety Freddy Ramirez and his family during this difficult time. All that matters right now is Chief Ramirez’s well-being,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said.
Ramirez, who was leading the largest law enforcement agency in the southeastern US, had announced his candidacy for sheriff of Miami-Dade County in 2024.
“We have been advised by local law enforcement agencies that our director, Alfredo ‘Freddy’ Ramirez, has suffered a critical injury in the Tampa area. We ask you to please keep him in your prayers,” a statement from the Miami-Dade Police Department said.
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