Fort Lauderdale has been impacted by a series of shootings this holiday season, including a recent incident yesterday afternoon in the Durrs neighborhood, where two teenagers, aged 17 and 18, were wounded. According to Local 10, police responded to the 1200 block of Northwest Eighth Street shortly before 4:30 p.m. and found the victims. They were taken to Broward Health Medical Center by Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue medics after initial care from police officers. The suspect or suspects had fled the scene.
These shootings add to a growing number of incidents across South Florida during the holiday period, including a previous case involving a 14-year-old who was shot outside a club. Police reported the teen is expected to survive. "That's shocking. That's not even normal for a non-Christmas Day," said Michele Van Tilborg, a resident of Fort Lauderdale, in a statement obtained by CBS News.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Fort Lauderdale Police Department or Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477).
The investigation into the shootings is ongoing, with police not yet linking the recent incidents. Detective Ali Adamson emphasized the importance of witnesses coming forward to assist with the investigation. Meanwhile, local organizations are responding to the violence. Kathleen Cannon, president and CEO of United Way of Broward County, spoke about the "Choose Peace, Stop Violence" program in schools. "We teach kids anti-bullying, self-esteem, acceptance and really focus on anti-violence and bullying from an academic and socioemotional perspective," she said in a CBS News report. United Way is also offering grief counseling and support services to those affected.
Cannon also stressed the importance of engaging young people positively, especially during school breaks. Programs like Alternative Spring Break, which involves community service projects, help keep kids occupied and safe. "Keeping kids occupied and engaged is key to keeping them safe when they're out of school," she said in a statement obtained by CBS News.
