Armed woman surrenders after Bonita Springs standoff with deputies

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. - A major law enforcement operation unfolded in Bonita Springs on Saturday, ending with the arrest of one person.

• RELATED: Woman taken into custody after armed standoff in Bonita Springs

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office shared new information about the incident that led to a deputy firing their weapon.

It all began at Leoni’s Pizzeria on Bonita Beach Road on Saturday. Deputies responded to assist Collier County deputies with a situation involving Ciara Marie Smith. Investigators said Smith had a firearm in her waistband and left a concerning note.

Due to Smith’s residence being located on Imperial River Road, Lee County deputies took control of the situation. At her home, Smith allegedly pointed a weapon at deputies twice, prompting one to fire their weapon.

"I was just on Metal Arc, and I heard four shots," said Victor, a witness.

Smith then reportedly barricaded herself inside, leading to the involvement of special operations and crisis negotiators. The scene included a heavy law enforcement presence.

"Every cop within Collier County, Lee County, was here, SWAT team," said witness Richard Kahaly. "They were, I mean, drones flying in that place, helicopters, they're breaking what windows, tanks, all kinds of crazy, oh, a robot dog. They had a robot dog."

Kahaly watched as law enforcement surrounded the home. "Seeing guys set up sniper rifles and drones and stuff, it's pretty wild," he said.

After several hours, special operations deployed tactics, including a rook, to bring the situation to an end. Smith eventually exited, and deputies used less-lethal rounds to take her into custody.

"The police officers did a great job of being patient," Kahaly said. "They could have gotten it done a lot faster than they did, and they're super patient with the girl, got her out, and she's not dead."

Smith remains in jail with charges including aggravated assault and resisting an officer with violence. The deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave.