On November 20, 2024, 24-year-old Esteban Arrufatt Jr. was fatally shot in a drive-by incident in South Miami Heights, Florida. According to Miami-Dade police, the shooting occurred just before 1 a.m. in the 19300 block of Southwest 116th Avenue. Arrufatt was standing outside when a vehicle drove by, and an occupant opened fire, striking him. He was transported to Jackson South Medical Center in critical condition but was later pronounced dead.
Arrufatt was born on February 25, 2000, in New Britain, Connecticut, to parents Esteban Arrufatt Sr. and Nancy Morales. He was raised in Waterbury, Connecticut, where he attended local schools and graduated from Crosby High School. Known for his love of sports, particularly basketball, Esteban was described as funny, ambitious, selfless, loving, and caring, with a personality that could light up any room. He is survived by his parents, sister Natasha Arrufatt, maternal grandmother Rosa Pagan, nieces Amelia and A’Miley, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Prior to his death, Arrufatt had a legal encounter; he was arrested on November 4, 2024, in Miami-Dade County, Florida, on a battery charge and was released on a $1,000 bond.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with Arrufatt's death. Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is urged to contact them at 305-471-8477.
