A Monday morning dispute between drivers at Miami Dade College’s Hialeah Campus took a frightening turn when one man allegedly pulled a gun in the campus parking garage, according to police.
The confrontation unfolded around 10:20 a.m. on the first level of the multi-level structure at 1780 W. 49th St. The other driver told officers he feared for his safety as the run-in escalated.
What Police Say Happened
Hialeah police identified the suspect as 23-year-old Leonard Diaz of West Miami-Dade, citing an arrest report obtained by Local 10. According to that report, Diaz allegedly reached into his vehicle, took out a firearm, tucked it into his waistband and walked toward the victim’s car while yelling and kicking the vehicle.
Evidence and Charges
Officers searching Diaz’s vehicle found “two small baggies containing a white powdery substance, suspected to be consistent with white cocaine,” along with “one small baggie” of suspected tusi, a suspected ecstasy pill and a medium-sized bag of suspected marijuana, as well as a firearm under the front seat, Local 10 reports.
Diaz was booked on charges that include aggravated assault with a firearm, sale or delivery of a controlled substance, improper exhibition of a firearm and unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public place. Jail records listed his bond at $8,500.
Legal Context
Several of the firearm allegations fall under Florida’s Chapter 790. Section 790.10 covers improper exhibition of a firearm, while Section 790.15 addresses discharging a firearm in public. Penalties vary based on the specific offense and the facts of each case. Full statute text and penalty ranges are available in the Florida Statutes, Chapter 790, which prosecutors may consult when deciding how to proceed.
Campus Response
The clash stayed confined to the garage area, and police reports indicate no students or staff were injured. The incident took place at Miami Dade College’s Hialeah Campus parking structure, a busy hub for commuters. For campus location details and contact information, visit Miami Dade College's Hialeah Campus.
