The Broward, Florida, Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday in a press release that it has arrested a 22-year-old suspect in connection with the shooting death of a 13-year-old girl in August 2023.
Police say 22-year-old Christopher Mark is suspected of fatally shooting victim Samiyah James during an argument that broke out outside a residence while Mark was in his car. Said. After police rushed to the scene, James was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. (Related: Judge sentences Michigan school shooting parents to 10 to 15 years in prison)
During a months-long investigation, detectives identified a suspect in Pompano Beach and arrested him on suspicion of manslaughter with a firearm. He was transported to the Broward County Main Jail,” the press statement reads.
Jail records show Mark is being held without bail, Local 10 News report.
Suspect identified: Broward Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested a man Thursday in connection with a shooting that killed a 13-year-old girl in North Lauderdale last August, authorities confirmed. https://t.co/CrG9bnxbeB
— WPLG Local 10 News (@WPLGLocal10) April 11, 2024
Local residents told Local 10 News that the victim did not live nearby, but was visiting a friend at the time of the incident.
“She didn’t deserve this,” said Lolita Katis, Samia James’ mother. Said NBC 6 News in August 2023. “They just took my baby’s life and took her life for nothing.”
Under Florida law, if convicted of manslaughter with a firearm, a person can be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison, suspended for 30 years, and fined $10,000. according to To Hornsby Law Office.
