Miami, Florida — A heated family dispute in a Miami home took a violent turn on Thursday morning, leaving a young man injured and his mother facing a felony charge after she allegedly stabbed her son with a fork during an argument about bills and his school performance.
The confrontation unfolded in a neighborhood near Northwest 72nd Street, roughly six miles north of Downtown Miami, according to police.
Argument Over Phone Bill and School Tardiness Escalates
Investigators say 39-year-old Leticia Puentes and her son — whose age has not been released — were arguing early Thursday about household expenses, specifically a phone bill, and concerns over his repeated tardiness at school. The tension intensified inside their home around 8:15 a.m., leading to a loud dispute heard by neighbors.
According to a police arrest report, the situation escalated when the son allegedly began throwing objects around the house in frustration. Officers later noted in their report that this behavior appeared to escalate the already volatile argument between mother and son.
Physical Struggle Turns Violent
While the mother and son were reportedly tussling on the floor, the confrontation took a dangerous shift. The victim told police that in the middle of the struggle, Puentes grabbed a fork and stabbed him behind the ear. The wound caused immediate bleeding and pain, prompting a 911 call.
When responding officers arrived at the residence, they observed a “fresh bleeding puncture wound” behind the victim’s right ear, consistent with his account of being stabbed with a fork. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue personnel treated the young man at the scene.
Suspect Claims Self-Defense
Authorities say Puentes admitted to stabbing her son but insisted she did so in self-defense. Investigators have not yet stated whether they believe her version of events or whether additional evidence contradicts her claim.
Despite her explanation, officers determined there was sufficient cause to arrest her, and she was taken into custody.
Puentes was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where she is being held on a $3,000 bond, according to Miami-Dade County jail records.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The mother is facing a felony count of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, a charge applied because the fork — though not a traditional weapon — was allegedly used to cause injury.
Authorities have not released details on whether the victim required further medical treatment after the initial on-scene care. No information has been provided regarding the son’s school or the ongoing family dynamics that may have contributed to the incident.
The case is expected to move forward in Miami-Dade court, where Puentes will have the opportunity to argue her claim of self-defense. Prosecutors have not yet confirmed whether additional charges will be considered.
Community Reacts to Disturbing Incident
Neighbors in the area described the situation as shocking but noted that arguments at the home were not entirely unusual. Domestic violence advocates in Miami say the case highlights the severe pressures families face, particularly in situations involving financial disputes or academic stress.
Authorities encourage families experiencing ongoing conflict to seek counseling alternatives before tensions escalate into violence.
Police Continue Reviewing Evidence
Investigators are reviewing statements from both individuals, as well as the physical evidence from the scene. There have been no updates regarding whether the son may also face charges related to the altercation.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains open.
Are rising household stress and financial pressures contributing to more domestic disputes? How should authorities and communities handle cases where family conflicts turn violent? Drop your thoughts in the comments — your voice adds to the conversation.
