Miami Teen Arrested After Allegedly Threatening Victim with Stolen Handgun in Marathon, Florida
MIAMI, FL — A 19-year-old Miami man, Damarcus Amari Butler, is facing multiple felony charges following a violent incident that occurred in Marathon on Tuesday, in which authorities say he pointed a stolen firearm at another man during an altercation. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to the situation swiftly, arresting Butler and recovering a stolen weapon connected to the case.
The incident unfolded around 3 p.m. when deputies were contacted by an 18-year-old male victim, who reported that he had been physically assaulted by a group of individuals, including Butler. According to the victim, during the confrontation, Butler escalated the situation by brandishing a handgun and pointing it directly at his head — a terrifying moment that could have easily turned deadly.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, no serious injuries were reported. The victim managed to get to safety and alert the authorities, whose rapid response played a key role in locating and apprehending the suspect.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Once deputies received the victim’s statement, investigators were able to quickly identify Damarcus Amari Butler as the prime suspect. With urgency, law enforcement launched a search for Butler, locating him not long after the report was filed. In the process, officers recovered a .40-caliber Glock handgun — the same firearm Butler allegedly used in the assault. It was confirmed that the weapon had been reported stolen out of Florida City, further compounding the charges Butler now faces.
Butler was taken into custody without further incident and booked into jail, where he is being held as the investigation continues.
Charges Filed
As of Wednesday, Butler faces a growing list of felony charges, including:
- Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Possession of a Stolen Firearm
- Grand Theft of a Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
- Displaying a Firearm While Committing a Felony
Each of these charges carries serious legal consequences, particularly given Butler’s age and the use of a stolen firearm in a threatening manner. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office has also stated that additional charges or arrests may be forthcoming as the investigation unfolds and the other individuals involved in the assault are identified.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
This incident has once again raised concerns within both Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys communities about the prevalence of illegal firearms and youth involvement in violent crime. The fact that the weapon used was stolen highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in preventing stolen guns from ending up in the hands of young offenders.
Authorities are continuing to interview witnesses, gather surveillance footage, and investigate the circumstances leading up to the altercation. The other individuals who allegedly participated in the physical assault may face charges as well, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
In a statement, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office emphasized their commitment to public safety and the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets.
“This incident could have ended in tragedy,” a spokesperson for the department said. “We’re grateful that no one was seriously injured, and we will continue working diligently to hold everyone involved accountable.”
Legal Outlook for Butler
Damarcus Amari Butler’s arrest marks a critical turning point in what could have been a fatal encounter. As prosecutors begin to build their case, Butler could be facing significant prison time if convicted on the multiple felony charges currently filed against him.
It is unclear at this time whether Butler has retained legal counsel or when his first court appearance will take place. The court will also examine whether he has any prior criminal record, which could further influence the severity of any potential sentencing.
Anyone with information about the incident or additional individuals involved is urged to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers. Tips may be submitted anonymously.