Miami Beach officials imposed a spring break curfew Sunday night after two fatal shootings and unruly, chaotic crowds that police have had difficulty controlling.
The city said in a news release that the curfew would be in place from 11:59 p.m. An additional curfew is likely to be imposed from Monday, Thursday till 6 am on Sunday till next Monday, March 27. The curfew mainly affects South Beach, the most popular party spot for spring breakers.
The release said two people were killed in two separate shootings on Friday night and in the early hours of Sunday, and that the decision was taken because of “an excessively large and unruly crowd”. The city commission is planning a meeting on Monday to discuss possible restrictions next week.
Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said in a video message posted Sunday that the presence of the crowd and many firearms “posed a risk that uncontrolled violence could continue” despite a heavy police presence and several city-sponsored activities to keep people engaged. Cannot be done”.
“We say no to spring break in our city. We don’t want spring break in our city. It’s too rowdy, it’s too much disorder and it’s too difficult to police,” Gelber said.
The latest shooting occurred at 3:30 a.m. Sunday on Ocean Drive in South Beach, according to Miami Beach police. Police said on Twitter that a male was shot and later died in hospital and that officers pursued a suspect. His identity was not released, nor were any possible charges.
In Friday night’s shooting, one male victim was killed and another seriously injured, as gunshots were heard as scared crowds poured into the streets from restaurants and clubs. Police detained one person at the scene and recovered four firearms, but no other details were made available.
Under the curfew, people must leave businesses before midnight, although hotels can operate afterward only serving their guests. The city release said restaurants can remain open for delivery only and the curfew will not apply to residents, people going to work, emergency services, and hotel guests. Some roads will be closed and hotel guests arriving may be required to show proof of their reservation.