NASHVILLE – Homicide Unit detectives are working to identify the teenage girl who fatally stabbed Malia Powell, 14, in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart store at 3458 Dickerson Pike shortly before 10 p.m. Monday.
It appears that Powell and the stabbing suspect had words inside the store. The exchange continued in the parking lot and up to the WeGo bus stop on Dickerson Pike. The suspect reportedly asked Powell if she wanted to fight and then charged her while holding a pocketknife. After the stabbing, the suspect fled on foot toward Doverside Drive. It is presently not believed that Powell and the suspect knew each other.
The teen suspect is described as white with brown and purple hair.
Teachers from Bellevue Middle School released this statement after learning the news:
“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.”
Anyone with information on the suspect’s identity is asked to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.
