Insets, from left: Ernest Jackson, Makayla Jackson and Christina Hart (Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office) and Celeste Jackson (GoFundMe). Background: The 6000 block of Norman Road in North Little Rock, Arkansas, where Celeste was fatally mauled by a dog (Google Maps).
Three people have been jailed in Arkansas after authorities say a 2-year-old girl was killed in a dog attack near North Little Rock.
Ernest Jackson, 54, Makayla Jackson, 21, and Christina Hart, 41, are each facing a charge of endangering the welfare of a child in connection with the death of Celeste Jackson.
Deputies with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office were called at about 6:30 p.m. on March 28 to the 6000 block of Norman Road. Emergency medical crews attempted life-saving measures, but Celeste was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials have not publicly detailed the suspects’ relationships to the child, though Ernest Jackson and Makayla Jackson share Celeste’s last name. According to an arrest report obtained by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette, a loose dog that lived nearby attacked Celeste and pulled her into a wooded area, where she was mauled to death.
Investigators said the toddler had been left unsupervised for a prolonged stretch before an Amazon driver found her alone. In an affidavit cited by the newspaper, law enforcement also noted that the area was known for multiple stray dogs and wandering drug users.
The dog believed to have been involved in the fatal attack is now being held by the Pulaski County Animal Control Division, authorities said.
Celeste’s grandmother, Shawnda Jackson, has created a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses.
“Celeste was a very smart baby who brought so much joy to our lives. She loved watching Ms. Rachel, Bluey, and Stitch, and her bright spirit touched everyone who knew her. Our family is having a hard time processing this loss, and we are doing our best to support each other as we grieve,” the description said.
All three suspects remained in the Pulaski County Jail as of Wednesday afternoon. Ernest Jackson has no bond while Makayla Jackson and Hart have bonds of $8,500 and $3,000, respectively. They are next scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 7.
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