Apache County Sheriff's Office
A horrifying case of alleged child abuse and murder has rocked Arizona after a 10-year-old girl, Rebekah Baptiste, was found unresponsive along a highway and later died from her injuries.
According to the Apache County Sheriff’s Office, Rebekah was discovered on July 27 at an intersection of two highways in Holbrook, Arizona. She was rushed to a nearby medical facility but succumbed to her injuries just three days later, on July 30.
Authorities quickly arrested her father, 32-year-old Richard Baptiste, and his girlfriend, 29-year-old Anicia Woods. Both are facing charges of first-degree murder and child abuse in connection to the girl’s death, according to Apache County court records.
During an August 4 court appearance, prosecutors presented disturbing allegations, describing the young girl as a victim of severe abuse and neglect. Medics who treated her said she was dehydrated, malnourished, and showed signs of torture.
Prosecutors also revealed shocking details of her injuries. “She was black and blue from her head to toe,” said the girl’s uncle, Damon Hawkins, in an interview with AZ Family. “She had two black eyes, and they’re thinking the cause of death was because of a hemorrhage.”
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Investigators reported that Rebekah was missing toenails and exhibited signs of physical and sexual abuse. Prosecutors believe the abuse was prolonged and deliberate.
Adding to the outrage, Rebekah’s school had reportedly contacted the Department of Child Safety at least 12 times regarding her welfare. However, AZ Family reported that no “meaningful action” was taken before the child’s tragic death.
The arrests of Baptiste and Woods have sparked anger and grief in the community, with many calling for accountability from child protective services for failing to intervene despite repeated warnings.
As of now, no information has been provided regarding the defendants’ pleas or whether they have secured legal representation. Both remain in custody as the investigation continues, and prosecutors are expected to pursue the case as one of severe and aggravated child abuse leading to homicide.
The death of Rebekah Baptiste has left family members heartbroken, with her uncle vowing to fight for justice. “No child should suffer the way she did,” Hawkins said.
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