HOLLYWOOD, FLA. (WSVN) - Dozens of law enforcement officials were on hand as the body of a fallen Hollywood Police officer was taken to the Medical Examiner’s Office, Monday afternoon.
Twenty-eight-year-old Officer Yandy Chirino was somehow shot Sunday night near the Emerald Hills Country Club. Several officers rendered aid. However, Chirino was pronounced dead a short time later at Memorial Regional Hospital.
Details as to what exactly happened have not yet been released but 18-year-old Jason Banegas is accused of fatally shooting Chirino.
Family and colleagues lined the exit of the hospital as Chirino’s body was taken to the ME’s Office for further investigation. One gentleman could be seen embracing a framed photo of Chirino.
Law enforcement officers could be seen standing in prayer at the scene Monday morning before cleaning the area believed to be where Chirino was shot.
“The police were called because someone’s doorbell video showed a video of someone breaking into their car,” said Benjamin Shwartz who lives in the neighborhood.
“Officers responded to the area and came in contact with a suspect,” said Hollywood Police Chief Chris O’Brien. “At that point, an altercation took place and officer Yandy Chirino was shot. Other officers on the scene were able to detain the suspect.”
The bike Banegas was using could be seen still laying on the ground.
“Yes, it was very scary. My daughter was crying quite a bit from what happened last night,” said Schwartz.
People, many of whom did not know Chirino, also arrived at the scene to leave flowers and pay their respects. “I came out here, we gave flowers to put here,” said former NYPD officer Richard Didonato. “[During] my time with NYPD, I lost a couple of friends myself, and I know what it’s like, and it’s just a tragedy.”
Banegas will be charged with armed burglary, battery on a law enforcement officer, carrying a concealed firearm violation, grand theft of a firearm, resisting arrest with violence and first-degree murder.
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