Two teenage boys are recovering in the hospital after being shot in a quiet Lauderhill neighborhood on Wednesday afternoon. The incident happened just after 4 p.m. at an apartment complex on Northwest 43rd Terrace. The victims, just 16 and 17 years old, were rushed to Broward Health Medical Center by first responders. Thankfully, both are now in stable condition and surrounded by loved ones.
Neighbors say the shooting happened suddenly and sent panic through the area. What began as an ordinary day turned into chaos when multiple gunshots rang out. Residents rushed outside to find the teens wounded, while others frantically called 911.
“It All Happened So Fast” — Witnesses Speak Out
Local residents are still shaken. One woman, who asked not to be named, said she was inside her apartment when she heard “four or five loud pops, like fireworks—but way too close.” When she stepped outside, she saw people running and one of the teens lying on the ground.
“I just kept thinking, ‘These are kids,’” she said. “They should be hanging out, not getting shot in broad daylight.”
Friends of the victims told police the teens had been hanging out in the parking lot when someone opened fire. It’s still unclear what led to the shooting or who the gunman is.
Police Working Around the Clock
Lauderhill Police say the investigation is moving forward, but so far, no arrests have been made. Officers spent hours at the scene, gathering evidence and interviewing neighbors. Detectives are also reviewing security camera footage from the complex and surrounding buildings.
They’re urging anyone who was nearby around the time of the shooting—especially between 3:45 p.m. and 4:15 p.m.—to check their phones or security cameras for any footage that could help.
“If you saw something, say something,” a department spokesperson said. “Even the smallest detail could be the key to solving this.”
Police have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random.
Community on Edge, Looking for Answers
This shooting has left residents shaken—and frustrated. Many are asking how something like this could happen in broad daylight, right in the middle of a family neighborhood.
“We’re tired of seeing kids hurt,” said a local parent. “Summer’s just starting, and this is how it begins? We have to do better.”
Local leaders are responding. The city of Lauderhill, along with Broward County officials, plans to meet with police and youth outreach programs later this week to talk about safety and support for young people during the summer break.
A Summer of Uncertainty
With school out and more teens spending time outdoors, there are growing concerns about safety. Officials say this is exactly the kind of incident they’re hoping to prevent with increased community support and summer activities.
Many parents in the area are now looking for safe places for their kids to go during the day. Some local centers are offering free teen programs and plan to expand availability in light of this week’s violence.
“This isn’t just about catching a suspect,” one city worker said. “It’s about making sure our kids feel safe and supported.”
What’s Next?
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The teens are expected to recover, though both face a long road physically and emotionally.
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Police are continuing their search for the shooter and are asking for any tips from the public.
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Community meetings will take place this Friday to discuss teen safety and resources.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Lauderhill Police at 954-791-3300 or call Broward Crime Stoppers anonymously at 954-493-TIPS.
As the investigation continues, families across Lauderhill are hoping for answers—and for peace.
