On March 7, 2014, Antonio Gardner, age 21, was tragically shot and killed in Liberty City, Miami. The incident occurred at the Food Meat Market on Northwest 15th Avenue. According to reports, Antonio was inside the store, leaning against a cooler and listening to music when a gunman approached, entered the store, and shot him multiple times. The assailant, described as a young, thin black male wearing a mask, fled the scene immediately after the attack.
Gardner, who was known by his nickname "Jit," had grown up in the neighborhood and had aspired to become a chef. He often faced challenges, including bullying in the neighborhood, but he was remembered by his family as a young man with dreams and a passion for cooking. His mother, Lisa Gardner, spoke about the hardships Antonio faced and the love he had for preparing meals.
The police believe that Gardner was the intended target and that the attack was premeditated. Despite the presence of many people in the busy area when the shooting happened, no witnesses have come forward with critical information that could lead to an arrest. Detective Daniel Valladares expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the community, which is often driven by fear or reluctance to get involved.
Antonio's parents, Lisa Gardner and Jervar Jackson, have been vocal in their calls for the community to help bring the killer to justice. They emphasize the importance of ending the silence that allows such violence to continue without consequence. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously in hopes of solving the case and bringing peace to Gardner's grieving family (sources: WSVN 7News).
