BREAKING: Hostage situation at Miami bar – schools evacuated as armed police rush to scene

Police said they were called to the scene, at the 1900 block of Northwest Seventh Street, to reports of a stolen mobile phone. 

When they arrived at a restaurant, identified by police as Joseph’s Restaurant, they were met by a female member of staff.

She said staff were being held by “management”, sparking an armed response from police with hostage specialists en route. 

Citrus Grove Elementary School and Citrus Grove Middle School were placed on lockdown, Miami Police Department said.

Miami Police Department tweeted: “Avoid Area: NW 22 Ave – NW 17 Ave on NW 7 St as it is shutdown reference possible hostage situation at 1971 N.W. 7 St.  Citrus Grove Elementary and Jr High have been locked down as a precautionary measure. PIO en route.

“Following a robbery of cell phone outside of the establishment, Joseph Restaurant, our officers were contacted by a female who came out and stated that they are being held hostage by management.”

A huge police presence is at the scene including heavily armed officers. 

This is a developing story, more to follow…