MIAMI – A Miami teen who survived a police shooting last year says he is grateful to be alive but shared some regrets over the situation after the state attorney’s office ruled the officer’s use of force was justified during a response to a mental health call.
The incident occurred last November when Miami police responded to a home on Southwest 19th Terrace near 17th Avenue after Mario Aranguiz’s father called for help. Mario’s parents believed he might have overdosed and was struggling with a tough breakup.
The intense moment, which was caught on camera, unfolded as paramedics scrambled for cover after the situation took a dangerous turn.
Now 18, Mario Aranguiz, who was 17 at the time, shared his side of the story exclusively with Local 10 News on Monday.
“I’m lucky to be here,” Aranguiz said. “I regret doing it and I went through the treatment and the therapy.”
Bodycam footage shows officers being let into the home by Aranguiz’s mother.
As first responders examined Aranguiz, he suddenly retreated to his room and emerged with what appeared to be a gun, but was later determined to be an airsoft pistol.
After yelling threats at the officers, authorities said Aranguiz’s actions prompted officers to fire.
Additional surveillance video then shows a chaotic scene with blood inside the home.
Police said Aranguiz was rushed to the hospital with a gunshot wound to his chest.
While reflecting on the past year, he said the experience has been life-changing.
“I was in a bad place, depressed. I guess I wanted them to shoot me. It was like suicide by cop,” Aranguiz said. “I would love to say sorry to the police officer.”
Now, Aranguiz said he’s focused on turning his life around, attending college and plans on joining the United States Coast Guard.
Authorities confirmed the case is now closed, with the State Attorney’s office ruling the officer’s actions were justified.
Aranguiz says the past is behind him and he is grateful to begin a new chapter in his life.