Florida Mother Accused of Shooting Her Adult Son in the Thigh During Christmas Day Argument Outside Miami Restaurant

FLORIDA — A Christmas Day family outing in Miami turned violent after a mother allegedly shot her adult son during an argument outside a popular restaurant, leaving the victim hospitalized and prompting felony charges against the woman, according to law enforcement officials.

Police say the shooting happened around 3 p.m. on Christmas Day outside the Red Rooster restaurant in Overtown. Officers arrived to find a man suffering from a gunshot wound to the thigh. Miami Fire Rescue treated him at the scene before transporting him to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition. Investigators later identified the suspected shooter as the victim’s mother, 50-year-old Roseita Lavette Smith, who was arrested later that day after allegedly fleeing the scene.

How The Christmas Day Argument Escalated

According to detectives, the victim told officers he went to the restaurant with his mother for brunch when an argument began inside. He alleged that Smith accused him of being disrespectful toward her and other family members, and the disagreement continued as they left the restaurant.

Police say the situation escalated in the parking lot and inside Smith’s vehicle, where emotions intensified. Investigators allege the victim eventually exited the car, after which Smith followed him and fired a single gunshot, striking him in the thigh. After the shooting, Smith reportedly left the area, triggering a search by law enforcement that led to her arrest later that day.

Victim’s Condition And Emergency Response

Authorities said the victim remained conscious following the shooting and was able to speak with officers at the scene. Miami Fire Rescue provided immediate medical assistance before transporting him to the hospital. Officials confirmed the victim’s injuries were non-life-threatening, and he remained in stable condition as of the latest update. No other injuries were reported, and police said there was no ongoing threat to the public.

Mother Claims She Acted In Self-Defense

Following her arrest, Smith told investigators she acted in self-defense, claiming her son had threatened to assault her during the argument. She allegedly stated she feared for her safety based on past behavior and believed she was in danger at the time the shot was fired.

Despite her claim, Smith was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, a serious felony offense under Florida law. Jail records indicate she is currently being held without bond as the case proceeds. Authorities have not released details about any prior incidents between Smith and her son, and investigators said the circumstances surrounding the self-defense claim will be evaluated as part of the legal process.

Ongoing Investigation And Community Impact

The incident has raised concerns among residents due to the public setting, the holiday timing, and the involvement of immediate family members. The shooting occurred outside a busy restaurant on Christmas Day, underscoring how quickly domestic disputes can escalate into violence.

Prosecutors are expected to review witness statements, physical evidence, and any available surveillance footage to determine the next steps in the case. Additional charges or court proceedings may follow as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact local law enforcement. For continued coverage of crime, public safety, and major incidents across the country, visit NapervilleLocal.com and stay connected with our latest reports.