Authorities in Louisiana have arrested a 24-year-old mother, Autumn Hano Harper, for allegedly beating her 8-year-old son, Sterling Rodgers, to death.
Sterling was taken to Riverside Medical Center on March 12 with severe injuries, including multiple broken bones at different stages of healing. Hospital staff quickly realized the seriousness of his condition and had him airlifted to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans. Tragically, he passed away on March 17.
According to the police, Harper voluntarily gave a statement admitting her role in her son’s death. She was arrested on March 20 and booked into the Washington Parish Jail on a charge of first-degree murder. She is currently being held without bond.
Franklinton Police Chief Justin Brown called the case “absolutely heartbreaking” and praised the detectives for their hard work. “This was a tragic event that will have a long-lasting effect on all involved. Our prayers go out to the family for the loss of this beautiful child,” he said.
Texas Mother Arrested After Toddler Dies in Tragic Accident
In a separate heartbreaking case, a mother in Texas, 31-year-old Morgan Ottiger, has been arrested after her 1-year-old daughter, Cora, was run over and killed.
The incident happened on March 16 at a trailer park in Harris County, Texas. According to police, Ottiger was sitting in a parked car with her daughter when she allegedly fell asleep. During that time, little Cora got out of the car and wandered into the driveway.
Ottiger’s boyfriend, 41-year-old Cameron Link, was arriving home and accidentally struck the child as he pulled into the driveway. Emergency responders arrived but sadly, Cora was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say that neither Ottiger nor Link immediately called 911 after the accident. Authorities also suspect that Link may have been under the influence at the time, but he has not been charged in connection with the child’s death. However, he was arrested on outstanding felony warrants for vehicle theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle.
Ottiger has been charged with reckless serious bodily injury to a child. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare called the situation “a completely preventable tragedy.”
“It should have never happened. Parents need to take responsibility and protect their children,” said Anthony McConnell from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Both cases highlight the devastating consequences of neglect and abuse, leaving two young children’s lives tragically cut short.
