Miami Mother Charged After Shooting Son Outside Red Rooster on Christmas Over Alleged ‘Disrespect,’ Police Say

MIAMI, FLORIDA — A Christmas Day family brunch in Miami ended in gunfire after police say a mother shot her son outside a Red Rooster restaurant during an argument over what she described as “disrespectful” behavior. The victim survived and was hospitalized, while the suspect was later arrested.

Authorities identified the suspect as Roseita Lavette Smith, 50, who faces a charge of aggravated battery with a weapon causing bodily harm, according to Miami-Dade jail records. She was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center shortly after midnight Friday and was initially held without bond.

Christmas Brunch Argument Turns Violent

According to an arrest report obtained by local station WPLG, Smith and her son were inside the Red Rooster on Northwest 2nd Avenue in Overtown for brunch on Christmas Day. During the meal, Smith allegedly became upset, accusing her son of being disrespectful toward her and other family members.

Around 3 p.m., the dispute continued outside into the parking lot, where the two entered Smith’s vehicle. Police say the argument escalated further moments later.

Single Shot Fired in Parking Lot

Investigators allege that as Smith’s son exited the vehicle, his mother followed and fired a single shot, striking him in the thigh. Officers arriving on scene found the man lying on the ground and bleeding from his left leg.

First responders provided emergency care before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he was listed in stable condition, police said.

Suspect Flees, Then Is Arrested

After the shooting, Smith left the scene, according to authorities. Miami Police Department officers later located and arrested her the same day.

During questioning, Smith told investigators she acted in self-defense, claiming her son threatened to assault her after refusing to leave her vehicle. She said she feared for her safety and referenced past behavior by her son, according to WPLG.

The shooting victim, whose age was not immediately released, identified his mother as the shooter, police said.

Charges Filed, Court Proceedings Ahead

Smith was formally charged with aggravated battery with a weapon. Court records indicate she remains in custody pending further hearings, with additional conditions to be determined by a judge.

Police said the investigation remains active as detectives review witness statements and surveillance from the restaurant and surrounding area.

Community Shaken by Holiday Shooting

The incident has rattled the Overtown community, particularly given its holiday timing and the involvement of family members at a popular local restaurant. Authorities emphasized that disputes can escalate rapidly and urged residents to seek nonviolent solutions during conflicts.

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