Tampa Woman Arrested After Shotgun Threat at Cigar Lounge Drama

1700 block of East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL, USA - In a startling incident that unfolded on June 15, 2025, a local woman in Tampa found herself in hot water after brandishing a shotgun outside a cigar lounge. Bernida Smith, 38 years old, was apprehended after threats were made to shoot patrons at the establishment located in the 1700 block of East 7th Avenue. The incident escalated following an earlier scuffle with security over bringing unauthorized liquor into the lounge. When asked to leave, Smith’s response was alarming, as she retorted that she would return to harm those inside the lounge, according to ABC Action News.

Witnesses described how things quickly turned chaotic. Smith reportedly parked her vehicle near the lounge and approached the entrance, armed with a shotgun. Fortunately, two security guards were able to disarm her before she could act on her threats. Tampa Police, who were conducting routine patrols in the area, arrested Smith upon their arrival, where they discovered two additional firearms in her vehicle. This incident only underscores the growing concerns surrounding gun-related threats in public spaces.

Legal Consequences

Following her arrest, Smith faced a serious legal battle. She’s been charged with multiple offenses, reflecting the severity of her actions. The charges include two felony counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, one felony count for shooting at or into a building, and one misdemeanor count for improper exhibition of a dangerous weapon or firearm, as detailed by the City of Tampa’s official statements here.

This incident not only highlights personal confrontations that can escalate out of control but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues regarding gun access and weapon-related incidents in the United States. According to data from the ATF, the ongoing problem of gun violence has led to numerous regulations designed to keep communities safe. Just last year, the authorities processed over three million NFA (National Firearms Act) firearms, a statistic that raises eyebrows in light of the recent events.

The alarming reality is that firearms continue to be prevalent in various communities, often leading to dangerous situations like the one Smith found herself in outside the cigar lounge. It’s crucial for the community to remain vigilant and support measures aimed at keeping firearms out of the wrong hands. As this case unfolds, one can only hope that it leads to greater awareness and discussions surrounding responsible gun ownership and public safety.