Gunman Francisco Ivan Mendiola Arrested After Firing Shots at Miami International Airport Terminal

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Francisco Ivan Mendiola, 31, after he fired gunshots near a terminal at Miami International Airport on Wednesday evening, September 23. The incident triggered a significant law enforcement response, but no injuries were reported among passengers or employees.

Deputies responded to reports of an active shooter at the airport just after 4 p.m. They located Mendiola on the second floor of the short-term parking garage. Officers observed Mendiola load a magazine into a firearm and fire one shot before taking him into custody as he sat on a bench.

Detectives later determined Mendiola fired four rounds. Three rounds went towards the occupied airport terminal, striking a metal trash can. A fourth round hit an unoccupied vehicle. Miami-Dade Aviation Department officials confirmed all passengers and employees remained safe throughout the incident.

Authorities found a firearm with two 16-round capacity magazines in Mendiola's backpack. Detectives could not interview Mendiola immediately after his arrest due to his intoxicated and aggressive behavior. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.