Mother speaks out after 10-year-old charged with killing her 13-year-old daughter is arrested

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A 10-year-old boy has been charged with murder in connection with the stabbing death of a 13-year-old girl in northwest Houston, according to police. Now her mother is speaking out.

The Houston Police Department shared the breaking update on Thursday regarding the Feb. 4 stabbing.

On the night of the incident, HPD officers responded to a call in the 8040 block of Grow Lane. At the scene, officers learned there had been a fight between two groups of people, including the 13-year-old victim, identified as Riley DeArmas.

Police said Riley was stabbed during the fight and was taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Her mother, Ashley DeArmas, told ABC13 the arrest is very bittersweet for her.

"I'm very satisfied with the arrest made today, it puts my mind at ease," Ashley said.

Ashley said that while nothing will bring her back, she wants Riley to be remembered as a goofy, bubbly fashionista, as she described her.

"We both are taking a loss due to these being children, but my child is gone forever, and I just want justice served for her," said Ashley.

Ashley told ABC13 it's been a rough time for her family - especially on March 20, which would've been Riley's 14th birthday.

"Once again, a bittersweet moment, I wish she was here, that was something she was very excited about before her tragic death, we talked about it, we had a lot of things planned, so to do it and still go on without her being here, it was a very hard day for me," Ashley said.

Riley's heart is no longer beating - but memories are now etched on her mom's heart forever.

"I miss you, everyday, down to the very second. I love her, and I miss her," said Ashley.

At the time, police said the 10-year-old was detained at the scene and told authorities he allegedly stabbed Riley in self-defense. He was then released pending further investigation.

As the investigation continued, HPD said the 10-year-old was charged for his alleged role on March 31. He was arrested on Tuesday in North Carolina.