LAKE CITY, Fla. — A relative of a teen facing charges in the death of a 12-year-old girl who was fatally shot while sitting on a couch in her home is now accused of making threats to the child's family, according to the Lake City Police Department.
Officers were dispatched Sunday evening to NW Long Street in reference to a reported disturbance in the area.
When officers arrived, they spoke with the family of Mariah Smith, 12, who died on Aug. 24. Police said the family members were involved in an altercation with the relatives of a person recently arrested for Smith's murder.
The victim in the dispute said 55-year-old Lucille Simpson drove by the family's home, rolled down her window, and said, "I'll lay your behind out."
Simpson, who was driving the vehicle, was holding a firearm while making the threat, according to police.
Officers arrested Simpson and charged her with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She was taken to the Columbia County Detention Center.
"This incident in question involved a reprehensible and intimidating act directed at the family of 12-year-old Mariah Smith," said Chief of Police Gerald Butler. "We will continue to work diligently to identify and arrest all those involved in this case."
RELATED: Second teen arrested in death of 12-year-old Lake City girl shot, killed while sitting on her couch
Less than two weeks ago, police arrested 15-year-old Jayden Burch for Smith's murder. Investigators said after processing evidence and conducting interviews for weeks after Smith's death, they found probable cause for his arrest.
Burch is the second teen charged in Smith's murder.
Four days after Smith was killed, police arrested 14-year-old Jatarious Flullen II on charges of murder and attempted murder.
At this time, it is unclear which teen is related to Simpson.
Police continue to ask anyone with information on this incident to contact the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343.