Bonita Springs sees dramatic standoff; suspect caught with replica guns

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla.—A major law enforcement operation unfolded in Bonita Springs on Saturday, ending with the arrest of Ciara Marie Smith.

The Lee County Sheriff's Office released new details about the standoff incident.

Smith was taken into custody after the standoff and is currently receiving medical assistance, according to the Lee County Sheriff's Office.

A police report obtained by WINK News revealed that Smith had two replica handguns, which she pointed at deputies twice.

Dozens of law enforcement vehicles, a helicopter and a crisis negotiation team swarmed Imperial River Road on Saturday night, surprising many in the usually quiet neighborhood.

"It's close to home. Imperial River Road is right down the street. So it's, you don't expect something like that to happen, especially in this area," said Alexander Rogowski, a resident.

The incident began at Leoni's Pizzeria off Bonita Beach Road, where investigators say Smith had a gun in her waistband and another behind her back. She also left a concerning note with her name on it.

"I think she was kind of stupid. Why would you go in there with a toy when somebody else could have a gun and shoot you?" said a neighbor who wants to remain anonymous.

When deputies arrived at Smith's home, they spoke with her father. Smith then emerged, pointed the replica handgun at deputies, and retreated inside. Moments later, she appeared at a window, pointing the gun again, prompting a deputy to fire his rifle.

"What would make someone want to do that, especially with, like I don't know, just how unsafe and unsettling these things are, especially around firearms," said Jenifer Chamreun, another resident.

The crisis negotiation team demanded that Smith exit the home.

"My mom lives down the street, so I went over to her house, and then I heard the negotiator over the megaphone," said Rogowski.

Smith eventually left the home and attempted to escape on foot. She is now receiving medical help.

"I do believe that mental illness is a big issue in this country, and hopefully she can get the care that she needs," Rogowski said.

Smith faces charges of aggravated assault and resisting an officer with violence.