3 arrested after loose dog pulled toddler girl into woods and mauled her to death: Cops

Three people are behind bars after a 2-year-old girl was mauled to death by a dog in Arkansas, authorities say.

Ernest Jackson, 54, Makayla Jackson, 21 and Christina Hart, 41, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child in the death of little Celeste Jackson.

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office responded around 6:30 p.m. on March 28 to the 6000 block of Norman Road in North Little Rock. Paramedics tried to save the girl’s life, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Authorities did not divulge the relationship between the suspects and the victim, although two of them share the same last name as Celeste. The Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette obtained an arrest report that said a loose dog that lived nearby attacked Celeste and dragged her into the woods, where it mauled her to death.

The girl had been left unattended for an extended period and was discovered alone by an Amazon driver. Cops reportedly noted in the affidavit that the area is known to have multiple stray dogs and wandering drug users.

Cops say the dog believed to be involved is in the custody of the Pulaski County Animal Control Division.

Celeste’s grandmother, Shawnda Jackson, started a GoFundMe for funeral costs.

“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.

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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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