Fort Pierce – The mother of Myrah Zeigler, a 19‑year‑old who was killed outside a Fort Lauderdale Airbnb on May 19, 2025, is demanding answers from the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. After reviewing body‑camera footage, Alacia Ford‑Barron says her daughter asked officers to accompany her and her friends to a nearby park before the fatal shooting.
Body‑camera footage shows a request for help
In the video, Zeigler tells the officers that a group had taken her friends’ keys and asks, “Could you walk us to the park?” Ford‑Barron recounts that an officer appears to agree, saying, “Let’s go.” However, the footage later shows the officers turning away, and the teens continue on their own. Two gunshots are heard shortly thereafter, and Zeigler is found lying in the roadway with a gunshot wound.
Police account of the incident
According to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, officers responded to a disturbance on Southwest 16th Street on the night of May 19. A physical altercation escalated, and a man produced a handgun, shooting Zeigler. She was transported to Broward Health Medical Center, where she later died.
Arrest and ongoing investigation
In July 2025, police announced the arrest of Larry Lamar Smith, captured during a traffic stop after officers discovered an active warrant. Smith faces a charge of second‑degree murder with a firearm.
Mother’s call for accountability
Ford‑Barron says the officers’ decision not to walk with her daughter may have emboldened the shooter. “If the bad people had seen an officer, they would have turned the other way,” she told WPBF 25 News. She also described the anguish of watching her daughter struggle for breath after the shots rang out.
Police department response
A department spokesperson expressed condolences, noting that the lead detective maintains regular communication with the family. The spokesperson encouraged the family to use the department’s formal complaint process if they have concerns and provided contact information for the Office of Internal Affairs.
Next steps for the family
Ford‑Barron says she will continue to seek answers, stating, “We’re going to fight because that’s what she would want.” She hopes the review of the body‑camera footage will lead to clearer policies on officer accompaniment in similar situations.
Community impact
The tragedy has sparked discussion among local residents about police engagement and safety in public spaces. While the investigation proceeds, community members are urged to stay informed and to support the ongoing efforts of law‑enforcement to bring justice for Zeigler’s family.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
