An altercation in a Miami-Dade neighborhood led to the arrest of 23-year-old firefighter Fernando Herrera, who is accused of injuring a 70-year-old man during a parking dispute. As reported by Local 10, the incident occurred near Southwest 125 Place and 147 Terrace. Fernando Cardenas, the alleged victim, claims Herrera pushed him to the ground.

Herrera, who joined Miami-Dade Fire Rescue in 2023, had parked in a spot that Cardenas said was not for him. Cardenas pointed to designated guest parking areas. The situation escalated when Cardenas confronted Herrera, who then became physically aggressive, causing Cardenas to fall and injure his back. Authorities responded to the scene on Wednesday around 7:15 p.m. Herrera was arrested and charged with felony aggravated battery on a person 65 years or older, and posted bond on Thursday.

After the incident, Cardenas spoke to NBC Miami about the confrontation, expressing his disbelief that he survived, stating that if his head had hit the concrete, the outcome could have been much more severe.

Despite the charges, Herrera was released on a $5,000 bond and ordered to stay away from the victim. His arraignment is scheduled for Friday next week before Dade County Circuit Judge Carmen Cabarga. Miami-Dade deputies are seeking additional information and encourage anyone with details to contact Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477, with anonymity guaranteed for tipsters.