Miami Beach, Florida – February 17, 2025 – Two Israeli tourists were shot and injured in Miami Beach on Saturday after a Jewish man, Mordechai Brafman, 27, opened fire on their vehicle, mistakenly believing they were Palestinians. The shocking incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns within both the local Jewish and Israeli communities.
According to police reports, Brafman fired 17 shots at the victims’ car, striking one man in the shoulder and grazing the other. Both victims, visiting from Israel, were quickly transported to a local hospital, where they are receiving medical care for non-life-threatening injuries.
Miami Beach Police arrested Brafman on the scene, charging him with two counts of attempted second-degree murder. Authorities report that Brafman spontaneously told officers he believed the car contained “two Palestinians.”
The victims, whose identities have not yet been released, were confirmed to be Israeli nationals. Israeli consular officials in Miami have visited them and are providing assistance to their families.
The incident has ignited strong reactions from the Jewish Orthodox community in South Florida. Rabbi Moshe Klein from Chabad of Miami Beach condemned the shooting, emphasizing that violence and mistaken identity have no place in the community. He urged residents to remain calm and support the victims and their families.
Additionally, the Israeli consulate in Miami issued a statement expressing shock and calling for justice while supporting the victims and their loved ones.
The South Florida Orthodox Jewish community is organizing a prayer gathering and Tehillim service for the victims’ swift recovery at Chabad of Miami Beach on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
As the investigation unfolds, Miami-Dade County prosecutors are preparing charges against Brafman, who is expected to appear in court on Monday, February 19, 2025.
