The North Little Rock community is mourning the heartbreaking death of Celeste Jackson, a 2-year-old girl who died after being attacked by a dog outside her family’s home on March 28.
The toddler’s death has led to criminal charges against three of her family members after investigators reviewed surveillance footage that authorities say raised concerns about the child’s supervision before the fatal attack.
According to police, surveillance video showed Celeste walking outside alone at approximately 5:03 p.m. on the day of the incident. Investigators said no adult appeared to check on the toddler before the dog attack occurred at approximately 5:41 p.m., meaning she was reportedly outside without adult supervision for roughly 40 minutes.
Authorities also reviewed surveillance footage from the previous week and reportedly discovered another occasion when Celeste had been outside without adult supervision for more than 20 minutes.
Three Family Members Arrested Police arrested Earnest Jackson, 54; Christina Hart, 41; and Ma’Kayla Jackson, 21, on Tuesday. All three were charged with endangering the welfare of a minor.
Authorities said all three defendants have pleaded not guilty. Investigators reportedly learned that Ma’Kayla Jackson told police she had left Celeste in the care of another person before later falling asleep. Celeste’s mother was reportedly at work when the fatal incident occurred.
A witness told investigators that children could be heard playing before screams were heard, prompting a response to the scene. Despite the emergency response, Celeste died following the attack, leaving her family and community devastated by the loss of a young child whose life ended in tragic circumstances.
The dog involved in the fatal attack has been taken into the custody of Pulaski County Animal Control while 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. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death and determine the facts relevant to the criminal case.
For Celeste’s loved ones, the investigation comes alongside an unimaginable loss. She was only 2 years old, with her life still unfolding ahead of her. Her death has left family members, friends, and community members grieving a child whose life was tragically cut short.
The charges against Earnest Jackson, Christina Hart, and Ma’Kayla Jackson are allegations. All three defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
