MIAMI, FL – A devastating police-involved shooting in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood early on June 14, 2025, claimed the lives of two individuals, 30-year-old Norman Lindo Jr. and 28-year-old Evelyn Valdes, leaving their families and the community grappling for clarity and justice.
The incident occurred around 3 a.m. near Northwest First Court and 23rd Street, a vibrant area known for its nightlife. According to Miami Police spokesperson Officer Michael Vega, officers responded to a disturbance call and encountered a man, later identified by family members as Norman Lindo Jr., who was armed with a gun. Witnesses reported that Lindo had been involved in an altercation, possibly after being ejected from a nightclub, and was seen disregarding police commands. As the situation escalated, multiple officers discharged their firearms, fatally striking Lindo.
Tragically, Evelyn Valdes, a beloved social worker who had celebrated her 28th birthday days earlier, was also killed in the crossfire. Valdes was in the backseat of a friend’s car, stuck in a gridlocked intersection near popular nightlife spots like 1-800-Lucky and Mayami Wynwood, when a stray bullet struck her in the torso. Both Lindo and Valdes were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where they succumbed to their injuries. A third individual suffered a non-life-threatening hand injury and is expected to recover.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is leading the investigation, as is standard for officer-involved shootings. Authorities have not yet determined whether Valdes was struck by police gunfire or a bullet from Lindo’s weapon, and the FDLE has stated it will not release further details until the investigation is complete. The agency is reviewing body camera footage, ballistics, and witness statements to piece together the events of that night.
Evelyn Valdes, affectionately known as “Titi Evelyn” or “Nana” to her family, was a Homestead native who made significant strides in her academic and professional life. The first in her family to graduate high school from the Medical Academy for Science and Technology in 2015, she went on to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from Barry University in 2023. Valdes dedicated her career to advocating for children who were victims of abuse or neglect, earning her widespread admiration for her compassion and generosity. Her family described her as a beacon of light with a sharp sense of humor and a deep love for the ocean, who recently embraced the Christian faith. “There’s not a book long enough to explain who my sister was,” said her brother, Jose Valdes. “She was the light of our family.”
Norman Lindo Jr.’s family and friends are equally devastated, seeking answers about the circumstances of his death. Tazzy Redd, a close friend, took to social media to plead for video footage or witness accounts, stating, “We just really need to know what happened because we don’t know.” Court records indicate Lindo had prior arrests for resisting arrest, driving with a suspended license, and grand theft, but his loved ones remember him as “Normy,” a cherished figure in their lives.
Both families have expressed frustration over the lack of information from authorities. Kristy Garcia, Valdes’ mother, tearfully shared, “My world’s shattered. I don’t think I’ll be able to move on until I know what happened, why this happened.” The Valdes family, represented by attorney Angelo Martin, has called on the community to provide any photos, videos, or witness accounts from that night to aid their pursuit of justice. “We’re going to continue to do what we’re going to do on our end,” Martin said. “Whatever the community can do to get us there faster, we would greatly appreciate it.”
The tragedy has sparked broader community calls for transparency and a review of police use-of-force policies. Over 350 people attended Valdes’ funeral at Memorial Plan Branam Funeral Home & Crematory in Homestead, reflecting her profound impact on the South Florida community. Her family hopes to honor her legacy by establishing a nonprofit to support children facing mental health challenges and abuse, causes she championed in life.
As the FDLE investigation continues, the families of Evelyn Valdes and Norman Lindo Jr. remain united in their grief and determination to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-8477 to provide anonymous tips.
