MIAMI, FL – Authorities in Miami arrested a 39-year-old woman on Thursday morning after police say she stabbed her son behind the ear with a fork during a heated dispute at their family home.

The incident unfolded around 8:15 a.m. in a residential area near Northwest 72nd Street, located just north of downtown. Law enforcement in Miami-Dade responded to a report of domestic violence and arrived to find a male victim suffering from a fresh puncture wound to his right ear.

According to investigators, Leticia Puentes and her son became embroiled in an argument over financial matters, including a recurring phone bill, and the son’s attendance issues at school. The exchange reportedly escalated when the son began throwing various objects inside the home, increasing tensions between the two.

As tempers flared, the situation grew physically confrontational, culminating in a struggle on the floor, officials said. During the altercation, Puentes allegedly seized a fork and struck her son near his ear, causing visible bleeding.

Paramedics with Miami-Dade County responded quickly, providing medical attention to the victim’s injury at the scene. Police have not released the son’s age, but records indicate he did not require hospitalization.

Detectives report that Puentes admitted to inflicting the injury, though she maintained that her actions were in self-defense amid the fight. After questioning, she was taken into custody and transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

Puentes faces a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, according to booking information. Jail records show she is currently being held on a $3,000 bond.

Authorities have not announced additional charges or specified whether child welfare officials are involved in the case. The investigation into the episode is ongoing, and court proceedings are expected to follow.

Domestic violence experts caution that such incidents can quickly escalate when disputes between family members turn physical, with everyday objects becoming instruments of harm.

Neighbors in the area declined to comment, while police continue to gather statements. No additional injuries were reported in connection with Thursday’s incident.