77-year-old man charged after Miami shootout involving off-duty CBP officer

Suspect and charges

Ruel Robert Maxwell, 77, was arrested on charges including attempted second-degree murder, attempted burglary, and unlawfully discharging a firearm, in connection with a shootout in Miami involving an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer.

The incident occurred around 5:45 a.m. Tuesday near Northeast 7th Avenue and 71st Street.

Maxwell initially tried to open the front door of a home before attempting to get into a vehicle.

Incident details

An off-duty CBP officer confronted Maxwell and told him to leave; Maxwell pulled out a revolver and fired a shot toward the officer. The officer returned fire three times; no one was hit or injured.

Police responded and took Maxwell into custody. No injuries were reported.

Legal proceedings

In bond court Wednesday, the prosecutor said Maxwell may have dementia and mental health issues, and the defense attorney said he has Alzheimer's.

Judicial and agency response

Judge Mindy Glazer said the biggest issue is removing all guns from Maxwell's home and suggested transporting him to a hospital for medical care.

A CBP spokesperson said their Office of Professional Responsibility responded to the scene and was reviewing the incident.