Miami Beach authorities imposed a spring break curfew after two fatal shootings and loud, chaotic crowds that police found difficult to control.
The city government reported in a press release that the curfew will apply from 11:59 p.m. Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday, and it is likely that an additional curfew will be implemented from Thursday to Monday, March 27. The curfew primarily affects South Beach, the most popular party spot of the season.
According to the statement, the decision was made after two shootings – one Friday night and the other early Sunday that killed two people – and “excessively large and unruly crowds”. The city council plans to meet on Monday to discuss the possibility of imposing additional restrictions next week.
Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said in a video message released Sunday that the crowds and the presence of firearms have “created a hazard that cannot go unnoticed,” despite a heavy police presence and many city government-sponsored activities, aimed at keeping people busy.
“We are not demanding spring break in our city, nor do we want spring break in our city. It’s too loud, too chaotic and too difficult to control,” said Gelber.
The latest shooting happened around 3:30 a.m. Sunday on Ocean Drive in South Beach, according to Miami Beach police. A man was shot and later died in a hospital, and officers pursued a suspect on foot, police said on Twitter. Her identity was not made public, nor were the possible charges against her.
In Friday night’s shooting, one man was killed and another seriously injured when they heard the gunshots, in an incident that saw crowds pouring out of restaurants and clubs onto the streets. Police arrested one person at the scene and found four firearms, but no further details were given.
Under the curfew, people must leave the store before midnight, although later hotels can only offer guest services. Restaurants may remain open for deliveries only and do not apply to residents, commuters, emergency services and hotel guests. Some roads will be closed and guests arriving at hotels will need to show their reservation.