Former Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez recounted his role in aiding victims during the tragic shooting at the Equinox gym in Coral Gables, an incident that claimed the lives of three people last Saturday. In exclusive interviews with CBS4 and the Miami Herald, Alvarez provided harrowing details of that fateful day.
The Incident Unfolded
Alvarez described witnessing the shocking moment when Abeku Wilson, a 33-year-old personal trainer, fired his weapon. Wilson had been terminated and escorted from the gym located in the Shops at Merrick Park. According to police reports, Wilson returned shortly afterward armed with a gun. He targeted Janine Ackerman (35), the general manager of Equinox, and Marios Hortis (42), the gym’s fitness director, before turning the weapon on himself. Both Ackerman and Hortis later succumbed to their injuries.
“I saw him again in the gym, and this time, he had a gun in his hand,” Alvarez told CBS4. “He said, ‘Where is he?’ He looked at me, and I looked at him. It was clear he was searching for the third person involved in his dismissal.”
Reports indicate that the third individual—a witness to the unfolding chaos—managed to escape after hearing the gunshots.
Alvarez’s Courage Under Fire
An experienced gym-goer and a regular at the Equinox location, Alvarez expressed shock at the violence but did not hesitate to help. Despite the danger, he stepped in to assist other gym patrons, offering aid and ensuring the safety of those who could escape.
“I’ve never witnessed anything like this,” Alvarez recalled. “It was terrifying, but in that moment, all I could think about was helping those who were hurt and ensuring others were out of harm’s way.”
For additional background on the incident, read our previous report on the Former Miami-Dade Mayor Involved in Shooting at Merrick Park Gym.
Community Grief and Response
The Coral Gables community has been left in shock and mourning. Equinox issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Janine Ackerman and Marios Hortis, emphasizing their dedication and professionalism, and pledging support for affected families.
Local organizations and community members have rallied in the aftermath. A candlelight vigil is scheduled later this week to honor the lives lost, and Equinox has committed to offering both financial and emotional support to the victims’ families.
Investigations and Future Preventive Measures
Authorities continue to investigate the events that led up to the shooting, including the circumstances surrounding Wilson’s dismissal, which preliminary reports suggest were tied to workplace behavioral issues. Law enforcement officials have praised the quick actions of gym staff and patrons, including Alvarez, in preventing further casualties.
This tragic event has also ignited discussions about the importance of addressing workplace conflicts and bolstering mental health support. Community leaders advocate for proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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