Tabone Parish, Louisiana. In a frightening case that has shaken the nation, the victim’s mother, 40-year-old Latoya Harris, and her boyfriend, 41-year-old Terrence Washington, are now in custody in Louisiana. The pair is facing terrible accusations after the 15-year-old girl allegedly suffered unspeakable torture at their home in Tabone Parish, just outside of New Orleans.
Investigators discovered that Washington shot the boy twice with a shotgun, including once in the chest. Harris set her daughter on fire in a terrible attempt to cover up the crime, and she refused to seek medical attention for her gunshot wounds. The teenager suffered such horrific torture that she lost half of her face and one of her eyes. She remains hospitalized, struggling for her life.
An automobile accident in Baytown, Texas, nearly 300 miles from their home in Louisiana, revealed the horrific assault. During the accident investigation, investigators and Child Protective Services (CPS) became aware of the teenager’s condition. They promptly sent her to the hospital, where they discovered the full extent of her injuries.
According to investigators, the abuse had been going on for months, starting around February during what is known in the area as Carnival season. The teen had moved in with her mother and Washington approximately a year and a half before the occurrences occurred. Relatives stated that communication with the teen had grown intermittent, and they had ceased hearing from him altogether.
Following the second shooting, Harris and Washington escaped to Texas, fearing arrest. During their stay in Texas, the vehicle accident occurred, which led to the revelation of the teen’s critical condition.
The issue has aroused fury and incredulity throughout the community. Ashlin Brothers, a reporter for Fox 8 in New Orleans, reflected the general amazement, saying, “It’s mind-blowing to think that a mother could allegedly sacrifice her child for a boyfriend.”
The teenager suffered terrible injuries. She lost an eye and suffered severe facial burns. Despite the stress, she is receiving medical attention and comfort from family members who have been by her side since the discovery.
This heartbreaking case is a harsh reminder of the horrors that might unfold behind closed doors. The community’s thoughts are with the courageous survivor as she fights for her life. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact local authorities. We strongly encourage anyone with information about similar situations to come forward in order to prevent more tragedies.