MIAMI (WSVN) - A security guard was forced to open fire on a panhandler after being attacked at a Downtown Miami Metromover station, Thursday, according to City of Miami Police.

Miami Police investigators said the panhandler was asked by the guard to exit the Metromover. The man left but only to return shortly afterward.

After being asked to leave once again, officials said the panhandler attempted to choke and bite the security guard. The guard then shot the man in self-defense.

“I’ve never seen violence like that before,” said Metromover rider Robert Carroll. “I’ve seen crazies before but not violent.”

The panhandler was rushed via ground rescue to Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital where he underwent surgery for gunshot wounds.

The condition of that panhandler remains unknown.

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