Mother shot in face during robbery

MIAMI (WSVN) -- A South Florida mother is fighting for her life after a man demanded her purse, then shot her in the face.

The victim's family identifies the mother of two as Evelyn Matamoro.

According to police, Matamoro was food shopping at a store located on Northwest 7th Avenue and 54th Street Thursday afternoon. She then walked outside and a man held her at gunpoint and demanded her purse. She immediately handed over her purse, and seconds later, the man shot her in the face. "It appears that, [according to] what witness are telling us, they saw the woman give him the purse and just seconds after he got the purse out of her hands, he shoots her right in the face," said Miami Police Officer Kenia Reyes.

Matamoro's family rushed to the scene after hearing the news. The victim's mother said her daughter was bleeding from her mouth.

"This woman is clinging to life at Jackson Memorial Hospital as a result of a senseless crime," said Reyes.

Police are asking anyone who was at the intersection during rush hour to help them find the man who shot Matamoro. "Perhaps someone that may have been driving in the area, saw what took place, [and] got a better description of the man," said Reyes.

Authorities believe the man may have taken off in a gray Dodge Charger. They are not sure if the vehicle was his getaway car or if he drove it himself.

According to police, when Matamoro was rushed to JMH she was in critical condition.

If you have any information on this man, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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