MIAMI-DADE, FL — A late-night argument at a McDonald’s escalated into violence, leaving a 15-year-old girl injured and her mother facing charges after an accidental shooting on Friday night.

The incident unfolded at the McDonald’s near Northwest Seventh Avenue and 95th Street around 10:15 p.m. According to Miami-Dade Police, the woman became involved in an altercation with three people at the restaurant after she believed one of them was pointing at her. Witnesses reported that she became confrontational, accusing the group of disrespecting her.

As the argument escalated, she allegedly retrieved a firearm and began threatening to kill everyone in the group. Detectives stated that during the chaos, the firearm slipped from her grasp, hit the ground, and discharged. The bullet struck her 15-year-old daughter in the shoulder.

Paramedics arrived on the scene and transported the teenager to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center, where she was listed in stable condition.

Police arrested the woman at the scene. She faces several charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, child neglect, and battery. Authorities noted that her actions were both reckless and negligent, putting her daughter and others in significant danger.

On Sunday, she appeared before a judge, who imposed strict conditions for her release, including an order to stay away from her injured daughter.

The injured teen is expected to recover fully. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and speak with witnesses to determine the full sequence of events.

Firearms are tools of protection, not intimidation. Introducing a weapon into a volatile situation not only escalates tensions but also increases the likelihood of tragic consequences, as demonstrated in this case. If you cannot control your emotions or reactions in high-stress environments, it may be best to reconsider carrying a firearm altogether. Responsible gun ownership requires not just training and safety knowledge but also the emotional discipline to avoid unnecessary conflict and prioritize de-escalation over aggression.

Owning and carrying a firearm comes with significant responsibility. Decisions made in moments of anger or fear can lead to irreversible outcomes, affecting both the lives of others and your own future. Always think carefully about your ability to handle tense situations before deciding to arm yourself in public settings.