Opelousas, LA – A Louisiana couple has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder after their 2-month-old daughter was found dead from severe neglect, starvation, and a severed lower spine, authorities said. Police described the case as one of the most disturbing instances of child abuse they have ever seen.
The Incident: Infant Found Unresponsive in Family Home
According to the Opelousas Police Department (OPD), officers responded to a 911 call reporting a medical emergency at a residence in the 200 block of North Liberty Street around 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 25.
When officers arrived, they discovered the newborn girl unresponsive and not breathing. First responders immediately attempted lifesaving measures before paramedics transported the child to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Police said the family home, located about 60 miles west of Baton Rouge, showed signs consistent with neglect. The parents, identified as Taylor Daniel Broussard and Kaylee Fontenot, were reportedly present at the time of the emergency call.
Investigation and Autopsy Findings Reveal Disturbing Abuse
Following the child’s death, the St. Landry Parish Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy that revealed extensive injuries and evidence of prolonged abuse.
The findings showed that the infant suffered from “extreme dehydration, malnourishment, and multiple broken ribs in various stages of healing,” which investigators said indicated ongoing abuse over time.
Most horrifyingly, the autopsy determined that the child’s lower spine had been severed, causing internal bleeding that ultimately led to her death.
“The infant had suffered immeasurable pain and cruelty in her short life,” police said in a statement. “This child’s condition was a direct result of sustained neglect and violent abuse.”
Authorities said the baby had been in the exclusive care of her parents since birth, and no other caretakers were involved.
Arrests and Criminal Charges
After the autopsy findings were shared with detectives, OPD’s Special Operations Division launched a full-scale investigation, interviewing witnesses and examining the parents’ accounts.
On Friday, October 31, officers arrested Kaylee Fontenot, the child’s mother, while Taylor Daniel Broussard, the father, remained at large for several days. Broussard later surrendered to police on Monday after a warrant was issued for his arrest.
Both suspects have been charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Cruelty to a juvenile
- Second-degree battery
The couple is being held without bond at the St. Landry Parish Jail, and authorities have not confirmed when their initial court appearances will take place.
Police Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Opelousas Police Chief Graig LeBlanc released a statement following the arrests, calling the crime “unimaginable” and urging the community to support the ongoing investigation.
“Our hearts are with this infant who suffered unimaginable abuse,” Chief LeBlanc said. “This case is in its early stages, and our investigators are working tirelessly to uncover every detail. We ask the public for patience, cooperation, and assistance in helping us pursue justice.”
Detectives continue to collect forensic evidence, review the parents’ digital activity, and interview extended family members to determine whether anyone else had knowledge of or involvement in the abuse.
Background Context: Child Abuse and Neglect in Louisiana
According to data from the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, child abuse-related fatalities have risen sharply in recent years, with neglect and physical violence being the leading causes. Experts warn that infants under 1 year old are particularly vulnerable due to their dependency and inability to communicate signs of harm.
State officials are urging the public to report any suspicion of child neglect or endangerment to the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-452-5437, emphasizing that early intervention can save lives.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
The Opelousas Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with prosecutors working to compile evidence for presentation to a grand jury.
Officials said the case will likely include testimony from medical experts detailing the extent of the newborn’s injuries, as well as forensic evidence linking the parents to the abuse.
Both Broussard and Fontenot face life imprisonment without parole if convicted on the first-degree murder charge.
Conclusion
The death of the 2-month-old girl in Opelousas has left the community in shock and mourning. As investigators seek justice for the infant, authorities hope this case serves as a grim reminder of the need for vigilance, compassion, and immediate action in cases of child abuse.
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