16-year-old charged in stabbing murder outside Walmart

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Metro Police have charged a 16 year-old girl in the deadly stabbing outside of a Walmart in North Nashville on Monday night.

Police arrested Isabelle Jocson on Thursday morning and charged her with criminal homicide for allegedly stabbing 14-year-old Malia Powell on June 20, which ultimately led to her death.

According to police, two groups of girls began fighting inside of the Walmart on Dickerson Pike and it continued into the parking lot. The altercations continued to a WeGo bus stop just outside of the lot around 9:45 p.m on Monday.

Police believe Jocson charged Powell with a knife and stabbed her at the bus stop. Powell was transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Police said everyone fled the scene on foot following the attack. The investigation is focusing on surveillance cameras from the parking lot and possible social media posts.

Powell was slated to attend Hillwood High School as an incoming 9th grader this upcoming school year. She previously attended Bellevue Middle School, which put out a statement on her passing:

“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.”

Several teachers from Bellevue Middle School released a joint statement after learning Powell had been killed.

“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.”

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