Mabel Figueroa, a 42-year-old female, tragically lost her life on December 31, 2013, in Miami, Florida. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute that escalated into a violent confrontation. According to reports, Ivan Wong, a 41-year-old white male, arrived at the residence located at 15940 Southwest 103rd Place and opened fire. Mabel Figueroa, who was Wong's estranged wife, was one of the victims.
Her brother, Michel Figueroa, a 44-year-old white male, was also shot and killed during the incident. Additionally, Ernesto Cardenas, a 42-year-old white male and family friend, was wounded but survived the attack.
The violence did not end with the shootings. Wong then drove his white pickup truck in reverse towards the residence, striking it multiple times and hitting his father-in-law, Modesto Figueroa, a 70-year-old white male. The chaotic scene left Mabel and Michel Figueroa dead at the location, while Ernesto Cardenas was transported to Kendall Regional Trauma Center for treatment. Modesto Figueroa also sustained injuries from being struck by the vehicle.
Ivan Wong was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but it is evident that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute. Wong and Mabel Figueroa had a 7-year-old child who was not present at the time of the shooting. The case drew significant attention due to the brutal nature of the crime and the involvement of multiple family members.
The investigation into the deaths of Mabel and Michel Figueroa was conducted by the Miami-Dade Police Department's Homicide Bureau. The authorities responded to the scene following reports of gunshots and a vehicle crashing into the residence. Neighbors described hearing the commotion and witnessing the aftermath, including bodies on the ground and significant property damage. Wong was taken into custody without incident at a different location shortly after the attack.
This tragic event highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the far-reaching consequences it can have on families and communities. The legal proceedings against Ivan Wong are ongoing, with the charges reflecting the severity of his actions on that fateful day.
