Commissioner's Niece Accidentally Shot, Killed

Samantha Meerbot was at a friend's house in Cutler Bay when she became the unintended target of a stray bullet, killing the 14-year-old on Monday.

Meerbott is the niece of City Commissioner Tim Meerbot.

"Sammy was a bright spot in all of our lives, deeply loved by all of us," he said. "She had a bright future ahead of her."

Police have not pressed charges against the 23-year-old man who shot the girl and they think the gun accidentally fired, causing the incident on Sunday evening. Meerbot was shot in the stomach.

Meerbot attended Southridge Senior High School and students were shocked at the news. Many of her friends said Meerbot constantly joking around and always making people laugh. Grief counselors at the school consoled many students on Monday

"She made you laugh at the stupid things and for the good things," friend Allen Hernandez said. "She was there for everyone."

"I know she doesn't want me to be down here and be upset and stop my life. I know for a fact that not physically but spiritually when I look back, Sam's always going to be there," said friend Yesenia Izquierdo.

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