Third Death Confirmed Following Shooting at Miami Gym: Marios Hortis, a fitness instructor and manager at the Equinox gym in Coral Gables, has succumbed to injuries sustained during a tragic shooting on Saturday afternoon. Equinox, in a statement released today, mourned the loss of both Hortis and Janine Ackerman, the gym’s general manager, describing them as “incredible individuals and beautiful souls lost too soon.”
The shooting incident, carried out by former trainer Abeku Wilson, has now claimed the lives of all three individuals involved. Ackerman died shortly after the attack on Saturday at a local hospital, while Hortis passed away today due to multiple gunshot wounds.
The Miami-Dade County Police Department has determined that the shooting was not a random act of violence but rather the result of a targeted attack stemming from a workplace dispute. The shooting occurred at 12:55 p.m. local time (16:55 GMT) at the gym located in the upscale Shops at Merrick Park in Coral Gables, a city adjacent to Miami.
Authorities revealed that Wilson had been terminated from his position earlier that day due to “workplace violence.” After being escorted out of the facility, Wilson returned armed with a pistol and targeted Ackerman and Hortis, shooting them multiple times. He then turned the gun on himself, dying by suicide at the scene.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Coral Gables community and beyond. Friends, family, and gym members have expressed their grief and disbelief over the tragedy. Equinox, in its statement, extended its condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed that it is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
A candlelight vigil was held outside the gym on Sunday evening, where members of the community came together to honor Ackerman and Hortis. Flowers, photos, and handwritten notes were left at the memorial, with many describing the two victims as kind, dedicated, and inspiring leaders in the fitness community.
Wilson, 33, had worked at the gym as a trainer but reportedly exhibited concerning behavior, leading to his dismissal. According to sources familiar with the situation, Wilson had been involved in a previous altercation that raised red flags among management. However, no further details about the nature of these incidents have been disclosed.
“This tragedy highlights the importance of addressing workplace conflicts and ensuring that they are handled in a way that prioritizes safety for all involved,” a representative from the Miami-Dade Police Department said in a statement.
The Miami-Dade Police Department continues to investigate the incident, focusing on Wilson’s motive and the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities are also reviewing security measures at the gym and surrounding areas to determine if additional precautions could prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The tragic incident has reignited discussions about gun violence and workplace safety, with many in the community calling for stricter measures to prevent such acts of violence. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in mourning the loss of two beloved figures and grappling with the senselessness of the event.
This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safety in workplaces and public spaces.
