HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – Two robbers targeted an off-duty North Miami Beach police officer early Wednesday in Hollywood, authorities said.
Hollywood police spokeswoman Miranda Grossman said the incident happened in the 300 block of Minnesota Street.
Bob Ferro, who owns Nick's Bar & Grill, told Local 10 News reporter Glenna Milberg that the officer and a woman were walking on Hollywood Beach after eating at a beachside restaurant when they were ambushed by two young armed males.
Ferro said the couple was likely walking to their car when the incident occurred, which was captured on his surveillance cameras at his business.
Ferro said the officer pulled out his gun and fired at the robbers, who ran away.
"The officer shot at him. They just ran when they saw his weapon," he said.
Several people staying in nearby apartments and hotels said they heard the shot and saw the yellow tape that marked off the crime scene until mid-morning.
"Detectives, they were looking for something. They were very discreet about their business, that's for sure," one witness said.
Authorities said no one was hurt.
Grossman said the would-be thieves did not get away with any property from the victims.
No arrests have been made.
"I'm sure they'll catch them. They got vivid pictures of them," Ferro said.
Surveillance video shows the culprits leaving in a silver or gray newer model Toyota Corrolla.
The North Miami Beach Police Department has not publicly commented on the shooting.
Anyone with information is asked to call Hollywood police or Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.