Teen Convicted Following Lake City Girl Incident Case

In 2023, firearm deaths became the leading cause of death for American children. This is more than car crashes, according to the CDC. The case of Mariah Smith, a 12-year-old girl, is a tragic example. She was killed in Lake City, Florida, leading to quick convictions and a shaken community.

The shooting happened in August 2023 at a family home on Northwest Long Street. Mariah was hit while sitting on her grandmother’s couch. After the shooting, a jury and judge gave life sentences to the teen defendants. This shows how serious the Lake City murder was.

Prosecutors said the shooting was a retaliatory attack after a school fight involving her brother. The Lake City Police Department and WCJB reported on the case. It’s now known as the Mariah Smith death, which has brought the community together.

People came together in grief and determination. They honored Mariah with a “Forever 12” memorial street and started anti-violence outreach. Even though some defendants have been sentenced, the question remains: how to keep all children safe at home.

This section sets the stage for verified facts, court outcomes, and the community’s response to the loss of a 12-year-old girl whose name now anchors a call for change.

Overview of the Lake City Shooting and the 12-Year-Old Victim

The shooting in Lake City FL shocked everyone because it happened at a family home. It took the life of a young girl. People wondered what happened to Mariah Smith as more details came out.

Reports highlighted her age, the quiet area, and the shock of her death. Community conversations used terms like shooting Lake City FL and Lake City murders. They showed the fear and grief felt by all.

What happened to Mariah Smith at her grandmother’s home

Mariah Smith was on a couch at her grandmother’s when gunfire hit in August 2023. She was 12 years old and died despite efforts to save her. Her brother Todrion Jenkins and grandmother Deadra Filer were also inside.

Witnesses and early evidence showed multiple rounds entered the living space. News updates kept saying Mariah Smith shot to show how sudden the attack was.

Lake City murders context and timeline of the incident

The incident happened on Northwest Long Street and was linked to Lake City murders. Video showed three figures running after the shooting in Lake City FL. Arrests followed, and court filings detailed the events.

Coverage focused on Mariah Smith’s age—12—and how the setting made the loss worse. The timeline showed quick gunfire, suspects fleeing, and a fast police response.

Why investigators say she was not the intended target

Law enforcement said the attack was meant for an older relative, not Mariah. They linked it to a school fight. This explained why Mariah Smith’s death was in the headlines.

Officials said Mariah’s death was a tragic result of retaliation. This understanding guided charging decisions as the case progressed.

Key Aspect	Details Reported	Relevance to Case
Location	Northwest Long Street, Lake City, Florida	Places the shooting in Lake City FL within a residential block
Victim	Mariah Reginae Smith	Focus on Mariah Smith age and the impact of 12 year old Mariah killed
Setting	Inside grandmother’s home; family present	Explains how rounds entered a lived-in space, leading to Mariah Smith shot
Timeline Clue	Video of three individuals fleeing	Supports the sequence tied to shooting Lake City FL
Investigative Position	Victim not intended target	Aligns with what happened to Mariah Smith and motive context

Key Facts About the August 2023 Lake City Shooting

In August 2023, a home on Northwest Long Street in Lake City, Florida, was hit by gunfire at night. A 12-year-old named Mariah Smith lost her life. Neighbors and family were left wondering what happened to Mariah during the chaos.

Detectives found that many rounds hit the home where Mariah lived with her grandmother and brother. They wondered if the shots were meant for others inside. This raised big questions about the danger children face when violence enters their homes.

Soon, police named three teen suspects: Matthew Rice, 17; Jayden Burch, 15; and Jatarious Fluellen, 14. Their young ages made the case a national focus. It highlighted issues of youth, gun access, and neighborhood safety.

Police found video of three people running from the scene after the shooting. DNA analysis linked a gun to Matthew Rice. This finding moved the case forward and shed light on the events leading to Mariah’s death.

Detectives found that the shooting started from a school dispute involving Mariah’s older brother. This discovery helped people understand what happened to Mariah. It showed why a 12-year-old was caught in a burst of violence.

Court records showed prosecutors sought harsh charges after reviewing the shooting. Hearings highlighted the danger to Mariah’s brother and grandmother. This showed how the shooting affected a family and why Mariah Smith’s case is remembered.

As the case moved forward, the outcomes for the accused teens varied. The story of Mariah Smith 12-year-old continues to spark discussions. It focuses on school conflicts, social media, and how quickly disputes can turn deadly.

Sentencing of Teen Defendants in the Lake City Murder

The courtroom phase focused on accountability in the Mariah Smith murder. This case has weighed on Lake City for over a year. Judges considered the gunfire, the risk to a family, and the impact of gun violence.

Coverage of the Lake City murders has followed each ruling. The details are stark and haunting.

Matthew Rice: life in prison for murder and 15 years for attempted murders

Matthew Rice, now 18, was sentenced to life in prison for Mariah Smith’s death. He also got 15 years for each of two attempted murders. Prosecutors linked him to a firearm and a coordinated attack.

The ruling came after testimony and filings. They described a barrage of rounds into a Lake City home. This case overview shows the court treated the shootings as one episode with distinct victims.

Jayden Burch: life in prison for second-degree murder and concurrent 30-year terms

Jayden Burch was sentenced to life in prison for second-degree murder. He also got 30-year terms for two counts of attempted murder. The court noted the scale of the gunfire and the risks to everyone inside.

The sentence included about $8,000 in court costs and restitution to the family. During the proceeding, Burch addressed the court while relatives asked for leniency. The judge referenced the 25 rounds that tore through the home, underscoring the human cost.

Status of Jatarious Fluellen’s case

Jatarious Fluellen’s case is pending. Reports indicate no trial date had been set at last update. Proceedings remain active, drawing attention to the case.

Officials and residents follow filings and hearing dates. The public record keeps focus on accountability in the Mariah Smith murder and its lasting impact on a family in Lake City.

Defendant	Primary Conviction	Attempted Murder Sentences	Financial Penalties	Case Status	Key Notes
Matthew Rice	Life in prison for murder	15 years for each of two counts	Not specified in record	Sentenced	DNA evidence tied to a recovered gun; part of evidence in the Lake City murders
Jayden Burch	Life in prison for second-degree murder	Concurrent 30-year terms	About $8,000 in costs and restitution	Sentenced	Judge cited 25 rounds fired; context of Mariah Smith gun violence
Jatarious Fluellen	Pending adjudication	Pending	Pending	Ongoing	No trial date listed at last update; connected to the death of Mariah Smith 12 years old

Evidence Presented: DNA, Video, and Ballistics

Prosecutors showed a clear path of evidence. They used science, video, and bullets to connect the dots. This evidence linked lab results, camera footage, and the number of shots to the attack on Mariah Smith.

DNA linking Matthew Rice to a recovered firearm

Forensic tests found DNA that tied Matthew Rice to a gun linked to the case. Experts talked about swabs and DNA profiles that matched the investigation timeline. They said this was key to understanding the gun’s role in the violence.

Video evidence of three individuals fleeing the scene

Video showed three people running from the scene right after the shots. By looking at each frame, investigators noted their clothes, direction, and timing. This helped them understand what happened after Mariah Smith was killed.

Volume of shots fired into the home and judicial remarks

At sentencing, the court mentioned the gunshots into the home. They talked about 25 rounds from one defendant. These details highlighted the violence and its impact on Mariah Smith and the community.

Key elements cited in court: DNA match to a firearm, video of three people fleeing, and a documented round count.
Context for the record: The convergence of lab work, cameras, and casings underpinned the case chronology for the shooting Lake City FL.

The science and video evidence created a strong case against the defendants. It was based on facts and careful analysis, focusing on the events leading to Mariah Smith’s death.

Motives and School-Related Retaliation Alleged by Investigators

Investigators found a link between school conflicts and the shooting in Columbia County. This case has brought up questions about Mariah Smith’s death. It shows how a school fight can lead to violence in a neighborhood where a 12 year old girl should feel safe.

Retaliation tied to a fight involving the victim’s brother

The shooting was a result of retaliation after a fight with the victim’s brother. The fight happened at school, and then the tension moved to the family home in Lake City.

People in Lake City talk about how school fights can lead to violence. They wonder how a simple argument ended in the death of a 12 year old girl in her grandmother’s home.

School discipline history and attempts to intervene

The State Attorney’s Office said the school tried 40 times to manage Matthew Rice’s behavior. He refused to follow plans to avoid conflicts.

These plans included meetings and behavior plans, common in Florida schools. This history helps understand why warnings didn’t stop the tragedy.

Remembering Mariah Reginae Smith, a 12-year-old sixth-grader

Friends and teachers remember Mariah Reginae Smith for her bright smile and love of dance. Her joy was seen in classroom talent shows and family videos.

Her story has touched many, even those who never knew her. Now, people talk about making schools and homes safer for kids like Mariah.

Community tributes: “Forever 12 Memorial Street” dedication

In December, the Lake City Council renamed Long Street to “Mariah Reginae Smith Forever 12 Memorial Street.” Councilwoman Chevella Young said it keeps Mariah’s memory alive and encourages community stories.

Mariah’s mother, Todneisha Filer, found the dedication meaningful. She urged efforts to keep guns away from young people. The memorial brings families together to remember Mariah Smith and honor her life.

Community Impact in Lake City, FL and Anti-Gun Violence Efforts

The death of Mariah Smith in Florida brought Lake City together. People from all walks of life joined hands to support the youth and families in their time of sorrow. LCPD Chief Gerald Butler thanked the community for their help and praised the State Attorney’s Office for their hard work.

At vigils and school meetings, people saw Mariah Smith’s death as a community problem, not just a personal loss. They started new programs to help students after school and made sure they got home safely. Counselors also talked about how the fear of another shooting was affecting students and encouraged parents to seek help from schools.

Family members played a big role in the response. Mariah’s grandmother talked about her ongoing health issues, while her mother pushed for more help for young people and ways to keep guns out of their hands. The decision to name a street after Mariah showed the community’s shared grief and their desire to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Local groups worked with law enforcement to prevent violence. They promoted programs to teach conflict resolution, set up tip lines, and help teens in trouble. These efforts, along with bringing the suspects to justice, showed how the community and law enforcement could work together in Lake City.

Residents keep saying the same thing: we need to protect our children, support our families, and stop the harm. This message is now heard in schools, city halls, and churches.

Initiative	Lead Partners	Primary Goal	How It Helps
School-Based Mentoring	Columbia County Schools, local nonprofits	Stabilize students affected by the Lake City shooting	Pairs teens with trained adults for weekly support and conflict skills
Community Tip Lines	Lake City Police Department	Encourage early reporting of threats	Anonymous calls help interrupt plans tied to shooting in Lake City FL
Gun Diversion & Outreach	City programs, faith coalitions	Reduce youth access to weapons	Routes teens toward services and away from Mariah Smith gun violence dynamics
Memorial Street & Healing Events	City of Lake City, community leaders	Honor Mariah Smith Lake City FL and foster unity	Public remembrance that strengthens resolve against harm in Mariah Smith Florida

Conclusion

The case of Mariah Smith Lake City shows how a single night can change a town. Investigators said the 12-year-old was not the intended target. The shooting was a result of school-related retaliation.

Evidence was strong: DNA linked Matthew Rice to a recovered firearm. Video showed three people fleeing. The court noted 25 rounds fired into the home. In the end, Mariah Smith killed became a defining moment in the Lake City murders discussion.

Sentences followed fast. Matthew Rice received life for murder and 15 years for attempted murders. Jayden Burch received life for second-degree murder with concurrent 30-year terms. The case against Jatarious Fluellen is yet to be decided.

For many, what happen to Mariah Smith highlights the cost of impulsive violence. It shows the duty to act before a gun is drawn.

Community response has been steady and visible. The “Forever 12 Memorial Street” dedication keeps her name in daily view. Local groups push for youth outreach and safer schools.

People continue to ask what happen to Mariah Smith. They search for clarity and justice in Mariah Smith Florida reports and Lake City murders updates.

As this story continues, it serves as a call for accountability and prevention. Mariah Smith Lake City remains a reminder that evidence, swift arrests, and firm sentences matter. But so does the work that stops the next shot. No family should face the words Mariah Smith killed again.

FAQ

What happened to Mariah Smith at her grandmother’s home in Lake City, FL?

Mariah Smith, a 12-year-old sixth-grader, was shot and killed in August 2023. She was sitting on her grandmother’s couch in Lake City, Florida. Multiple rounds were fired into the house, hitting Mariah. Her brother and grandmother were also inside but survived.Police say Mariah was not the target of the shooting.

How does this case fit into the broader Lake City murders context and timeline?

The killing happened during a time of concern over youth gun violence in Lake City. The shooting on Northwest Long Street drew a lot of attention because of Mariah’s age and the many shots fired. Police quickly found three teen suspects.Later, two of them were given life sentences. This was a key moment in the city’s fight against violent crime.

Why do investigators say Mariah Smith was not the intended target?

Police and prosecutors believe the shooting was in retaliation for a school fight involving Mariah’s brother. They say the shots were meant for him, not Mariah. This is based on evidence and statements from court.

What are the key facts about the August 2023 Lake City shooting?

The attack happened on Northwest Long Street when at least 25 rounds were fired into a home. This killed 12-year-old Mariah Smith. Video showed three individuals fleeing.DNA linked Matthew Rice to a recovered firearm. Authorities arrested three teens: Matthew Rice (then 17), Jayden Burch (then 15), and Jatarious Fluellen (then 14).

What sentence did Matthew Rice receive?

Matthew Rice, now 18, was sentenced to life in prison for murder. He also got 15 years for each of two attempted murders. These involved Mariah’s brother and her grandmother.Court records show DNA evidence tied Rice to a gun found after the shooting.

What sentence did Jayden Burch receive?

A judge sentenced Jayden Burch to life in prison for second-degree murder. He also got concurrent 30-year terms for two counts of attempted murder. The court ordered roughly ,000 in costs and restitution.During sentencing, the judge mentioned the 25 rounds fired as showing a disregard for human life.

What is the status of Jatarious Fluellen’s case?

As of the latest WCJB reports and court records, Jatarious Fluellen’s case is pending. There is no listed trial date. Authorities say all responsible parties will be held accountable as proceedings continue.

What evidence linked Matthew Rice to the shooting?

Forensic DNA analysis connected Matthew Rice to a firearm recovered after the attack. This, combined with video showing three individuals fleeing the scene, formed a core part of the prosecution’s evidence.

What video evidence exists in the Mariah Smith Lake City case?

Investigators obtained video that reportedly captured three individuals running from the area immediately after the shots were fired into the Northwest Long Street residence. This helped corroborate witness accounts and timelines.

How many shots were fired into the home, and what did the judge say?

The court referenced 25 rounds fired into the home. In sentencing, the judge emphasized that volume of fire as evidence of an extreme disregard for human life, supporting the severe penalties imposed.

What motive do investigators allege for the Lake City shooting?

Authorities allege the shooting was retaliation tied to a school fight involving Mariah’s older brother. They maintain Mariah was an unintended victim of a targeted dispute that escalated into gunfire.

What was noted about the suspects’ school discipline history?

The State Attorney’s Office stated the school system tried at least 40 times to address Matthew Rice’s behavioral issues, but he did not comply with interventions. This context was cited in discussions about prevention and accountability.

Who was Mariah Reginae Smith beyond the headlines?

Family and friends remember Mariah Reginae Smith as a smiling, dance-loving 12-year-old sixth-grader. She is central to the community’s call for safer streets and stronger youth support.

How did Lake City honor Mariah Smith?

The city designated “Mariah Reginae Smith Forever 12 Memorial Street” on Long Street. Councilwoman Chevella Young and Mariah’s family, including her mother, Todneisha Filer, and grandmother, Deadra Filer, said the sign keeps her memory alive and supports anti-gun violence efforts.

How has the Lake City community responded to the shooting?

Residents, city leaders, and LCPD Chief Gerald Butler emphasized accountability and prevention. Community members organized tributes, advocated for youth programs, and supported the family, signaling a broader push to curb gun violence.

What related searches do people use when looking up this case?

Common searches include “Lake City shooting,” “shooting in Lake City FL,” “shooting Lake City FL,” “Lake City murders,” and “Lake City murder.” Many also search “Mariah Smith Lake City FL,” “Mariah Smith death,” “Mariah Reginae Smith,” and “12-year-old gun violence.” Some queries reference “First Stop Gun” in broader firearms discussions.

Where did the shooting occur and who else was present?

The shooting occurred on Northwest Long Street in Lake City, Florida. Inside the home were Mariah, her brother, Todrion Jenkins, and her grandmother, Deadra Filer. Video captured three individuals fleeing right after the gunfire.

What does “what happened to Mariah Smith” mean in news coverage?

It refers to the August 2023 incident in which 12-year-old Mariah Smith was fatally shot inside her grandmother’s home during a retaliatory attack. The phrase often appears in searches like “what happened to Mariah Smith,” “Mariah Smith Lake City,” and “Mariah Smith Florida.”

How old were the defendants and what were their roles?

At the time, Matthew Rice was 17, Jayden Burch was 15, and Jatarious Fluellen was 14. Rice and Burch have been sentenced—life for murder and life for second-degree murder, respectively—while Fluellen’s case is ongoing. Evidence included DNA, video, and the documented 25 rounds fired.

What lasting changes followed the death of Mariah Smith?

Beyond the convictions, Lake City created the “Forever 12 Memorial Street,” and local leaders and families expanded advocacy for youth outreach and gun diversion. The case remains a touchstone in discussions about preventing future shootings in Lake City, FL.