In a shocking incident in Louisiana, a couple has been arrested and charged with the fatal abuse and neglect of their two-month-old daughter. The infant girl, who authorities say died from internal bleeding caused by a severed lower spine, was allegedly the victim of severe physical abuse and neglect by her parents, Taylor Daniel Broussard and Kaylee Fontenot.
The Opelousas Police Department responded to a distress call about a medical emergency at a residence on North Liberty Street, approximately 60 miles west of Baton Rouge, on the morning of October 25. Upon arrival, first responders found the infant girl unresponsive and immediately initiated lifesaving procedures. The infant was then transported to a nearby hospital by paramedics, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
An autopsy performed by the medical examiner revealed the extent of the infant’s suffering. The report indicated that the child had endured severe neglect and physical abuse, including multiple broken ribs at different stages of healing, extreme dehydration, and malnourishment. The autopsy also confirmed that the infant’s lower spine had been severed, leading to internal bleeding and ultimately, her death.
Following the autopsy, police initiated an investigation and identified the infant’s parents, Broussard and Fontenot, as the primary suspects. The police emphasized that the infant had been in the exclusive custody of her parents since her birth. Arrest warrants were promptly issued for both parents.
Investigators from the Opelousas Police Department’s Special Operations Division apprehended Fontenot on Friday. Broussard, who had been evading arrest, turned himself in several days later. Both parents are currently being held at the St. Landry Parish Jail, with court dates yet to be determined.
Opelousas Police Department Chief Graig LeBlanc issued a statement, expressing deep sorrow for the infant’s suffering and assuring the public that the investigation into the parents is active and ongoing. He urged the public to be patient and cooperative, promising that the department is committed to uncovering every detail of the case and ensuring justice is served.