Arland Cata, a 44-year-old man, was fatally shot on September 10, 2023, in Wilton Manors, Florida. The incident occurred at a vacation rental property located at 501 NW 28th Ct. When the Wilton Manors Police Department (WMPD) and the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) arrived at the scene, they found Cata unresponsive. Despite being rushed to the hospital, efforts to save his life were unsuccessful, and he died from his wounds.
The property where the shooting took place was a licensed vacation rental, but it had been cited in July for several code violations, including the tenant running an illegal business. The property owner, described as an "absentee landlord," had reportedly ignored reports of problems at the property until after the killing.
The investigation is being led by the BSO, with assistance from the WMPD. As of the current date, no arrests have been made, and there is no suspect description available. However, a source close to the investigation has indicated that this appears to be an isolated incident and not part of a violent crime spree.
Recently, the BSO released a video showing suspects wanted in connection with the fatal shooting. The video depicts the suspects running alongside the victim's driveway, followed by at least a dozen gunshots. The shooters then fled the residence in a white four-door sedan, where more shots were fired. The BSO and Broward Crime Stoppers are seeking additional leads and are offering a reward of up to $5,000 for any information leading to an arrest in Cata’s killing.
Chief Gary Blocker of the WMPD has assured the community that increased patrols have been implemented in the neighborhood to restore a sense of safety. The police are urging anyone with information to call BSO Detective Steven Novak or Broward Crime Stoppers, where callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.
