NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A 16-year-old girl has been charged in the stabbing death of a 14-year-old girl outside the Dickerson Pike Walmart.

Metro police reported Isabelle Jocson, 16, was charged with criminal homicide for Monday night’s stabbing of Malia Powell, 14, in the parking lot of the Walmart near a bus stop.

According to a release, two groups, one with Powell and the other with Jocson, met inside the store, briefly exchanged words and went their separate ways.

Jocson’s group left the store and headed for the bus stop. Powell’s group left the store and Powell got into a car that went to the area where Jocson’s group was walking.

Jocson reportedly challenged Powell to a fight. Powell then approached Jocson and the two began fighting. During the fight, Jocson allegedly pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed Powell in the neck. After the stabbing, Jocson ran away toward Doverside Drive.

Investigators do not believe Jocson and Powell knew each other prior to the stabbing.

Jocson was arrested just before midnight at her apartment on Claiborne Street. Investigators were able to identify Jocson as the suspect after reviewing surveillance video from the Walmart.

Metro police told News 2 that they are investigating potential suspects since the attack was recorded on a cell phone. No other arrests have been made.

Metro Nashville Public Schools released a statement, saying the district is “saddened by the tragic death of Malia Powell Ridley.” She was a rising 9th grader who had recently completed 8th grade at Bellevue Middle and was enrolled to attend Hillwood High in the upcoming school year, according to MNPS spokesperson Sean Braisted.

“Our deepest sympathies are with her family and the Bellevue Middle community. Our student support services team is working with the school administration to provide counseling for any students or staff who need it.”

SEAN BRAISTED

Three Bellevue Middle teachers who knew Malia had this to say about their former student:

“Malia Powell Ridley was an amazing member of the Bellevue Community. Malia was a cheerleader who encouraged her team to work hard, a loyal friend to many, and strived to grow in her academics. She was a leader amongst her peers, motivating everybody to be their best selves. Malia’s bubbly, energetic, and funny personality will be missed at Bellevue Middle School.”

BREANNA MCKENZIE, EMMAJULIA JONES, AND WOJCIECHOWSKI DANIELLE