Woman Kicked Out Of FL Cigar Lounge Accused Of Threatening Shooting

TAMPA, FL — A woman was arrested Sunday after threatening to shoot people at a Tampa cigar lounge after she was kicked out, authorities said.

Bernida Smith, 38, was charged with two felony counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, one felony count of shooting at within or into a building, and one misdemeanor count of improper exhibition of a dangerous weapon or firearm, Tampa police said in a news release.

Smith was kicked out of the lounge in the 1700 block of E. 7th Avenue for bringing outside liquor inside.

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While resisting being ejected, Smith threatened to come back and shoot patrons at the lounge, police said. Minutes later, she went to her vehicle, which was parked out front, and approached the lounge’s entrance with a shotgun.

Two security guards who worked at the lounge were able to disarm Smith, who was arrested by officers patrolling in the immediate area.

“The quick and courageous actions of the security guards, combined with the rapid response of our officers, prevented what could have been a devastating tragedy,” Chief Lee Bercaw said. “This incident is a reminder of the importance of strong partnerships between officers and our community, and their actions are a testament to the shared responsibility of keeping Tampa safe.”

After her arrest, the officers found two additional guns in her vehicle.

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