Davie, Florida – A confrontation in a busy Costco parking lot erupted into gunfire Wednesday morning, leaving shoppers terrified and prompting a swift police response. Authorities say Rafael Javier, 52, was arrested following what investigators described as a “violent road rage encounter” that escalated far beyond a verbal dispute.

The incident unfolded shortly after 10:00 a.m. in the parking lot of a Costco store near South University Drive and Griffin Road. According to the Davie Police Department, the altercation began when two men in separate vehicles became engaged in a heated argument over parking or traffic behavior within the lot. Witnesses reported hearing shouting before the situation suddenly turned violent.

Investigators say Javier allegedly pulled out a firearm and opened fire on the other driver’s SUV during the confrontation. Several rounds struck the vehicle, shattering glass and leaving visible bullet holes across the side panels. The victim, whose name has not been released, was inside the vehicle at the time but miraculously escaped injury.

Police units were dispatched immediately after multiple 911 calls flooded in from alarmed shoppers and employees who heard gunfire. Officers arrived within minutes and quickly secured the scene. They located Javier at the site and took him into custody without further incident. A handgun was recovered, and the area was temporarily placed on lockdown while detectives collected evidence.

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with shoppers rushing back into the store or ducking behind cars for safety. One Costco employee said, “Everyone just froze when we heard the shots. People started screaming and running inside. It was terrifying — nobody knew what was happening.” Police later escorted several witnesses to give statements.

Authorities confirmed that no bystanders were hurt, but the incident caused widespread panic among customers who were shopping during the mid-morning rush. Officers blocked off the parking lot for several hours as investigators examined shell casings, bullet trajectories, and surveillance footage from multiple angles.

Davie Police spokespersons stated that preliminary evidence supports charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm in public, and criminal mischief. Detectives are also consulting with the State Attorney’s Office regarding potential additional charges related to reckless endangerment. Javier was later transported to the Broward County Jail, where he awaits his first court appearance.

In a public statement, authorities emphasized that the shooting appears to have stemmed solely from road rage and not from any ongoing dispute or personal relationship between the men. They called the situation “completely preventable,” urging drivers to remain calm and avoid confrontations in high-traffic areas.

The Davie community expressed shock over the shooting, noting that such violent outbursts have become increasingly common in Florida’s parking lots and intersections. Local residents voiced frustration and fear that minor traffic disagreements are now too often escalating into life-threatening events.

As the investigation continues, police have reassured the public that Costco surveillance footage and witness cooperation will play a crucial role in securing justice. What began as an ordinary Wednesday morning ended in chaos — a stark reminder of how quickly anger behind the wheel can ignite tragedy.