Celeste Jackson Obituary: 2-Year-Old Girl Dies in Tragic Dog Attack as Three Family Members Face Child Endangerment Charges
Celeste Jackson, a 2-year-old girl from North Little Rock, Arkansas, died on March 28 after being attacked by a dog outside her family’s home, The tragic death has led to the arrests of three of Celeste’s family members, who are facing child endangerment charges after investigators reviewed surveillance footage from the property.
According to police, surveillance video showed Celeste walking outside alone at approximately 5:03 p.m. on the day of the attack. Investigators said no adult checked on the toddler until the dog attack occurred at approximately 5:41 p.m., leaving her unsupervised for roughly 40 minutes.
Police also reviewed footage from the previous week and reportedly found another instance in which Celeste was outside without adult supervision for more than 20 minutes.
Family Members Arrested
Earnest Jackson, 54, Christina Hart, 41, and Ma’Kayla Jackson, 21, were arrested Tuesday and charged with endangering the welfare of a minor.
All three defendants have pleaded not guilty.
According to investigators, Ma’Kayla Jackson told officers that she had left Celeste with another person and later fell asleep. Celeste’s mother was reportedly at work at the time of the incident.
A witness told authorities that they heard children playing before hearing screams, prompting the response to the tragic attack.
Investigation Continues
The dog involved in the fatal attack has been taken into the custody of Pulaski County Animal Control as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding Celeste’s death.
The three defendants are being held in the county jail on bonds ranging from $3,000 to $10,000.
Celeste’s death has left her family and community mourning the loss of a young child whose life was tragically cut short.
The criminal charges against the three family members remain allegations, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Further details about the case are expected as the legal proceedings continue.
