Teen Charged As Adult in Miami Shooting
Prosecutors have filed attempted murder charges against a 17-year-old suspect following a gang-related shooting.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Violence
Miami authorities have charged 17-year-old Donald Eliam Centena as an adult for his alleged role in a June 14 shooting. The suspect faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder and aggravated assault with a firearm, following an incident near Riverside Park.
Why it matters
The case highlights escalating tensions between rival street gangs, as investigators linked the violence to an ongoing dispute between opposing groups. The victim, who was shot in the leg, identified the suspects as members of a rival faction.
Donald Eliam Centena was booked into the Metrowest Detention Center on September 18 to face charges of attempted murder and firearm possession by a minor. Police recovered three 9 mm shell casings from the scene at 675 SW Third St.
The players
Donald Eliam Centena
The 17-year-old suspect is being charged as an adult for his alleged involvement in a gang-related shooting incident.
Metrowest Detention Center
This facility is currently housing the suspect while he awaits legal proceedings related to the attempted murder charges.
The details
Surveillance video allegedly captured two suspects opening fire on victims near Riverside Park before witness testimony observed them unloading weapons. The victim was treated for a gunshot wound to the left leg following the late-night encounter.
Timeline
The shooting occurred near Riverside Park on June 14.
Police responded to the scene at 11:11 p.m. on June 14.
Donald Eliam Centena was arrested on August 31.
Centena was booked into the Metrowest Detention Center on September 18.
Legal Context
This case follows the procedural pattern set by the Florida Juvenile Justice Act's direct file provisions, which grant prosecutors the discretion to charge minors as adults for serious violent crimes. Local legal trends in Miami increasingly utilize these measures to address recidivism among younger suspects involved in gang-related violence.
Residents near the 675 SW Third St. area are advised to remain vigilant due to the underlying gang activity identified by police. The ongoing legal proceedings may result in further investigative updates that could affect local neighborhood safety protocols.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with gang affiliation and the severe legal consequences for minors involved in violent crimes. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activity to help law enforcement prevent future escalation.
Further reading
For more information on local safety trends, visit the Violence section.
