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Warning: This article may contain upsetting information.
Police have shared heartbreaking new details about the brutal killing of 13-year-old Kei’Mani Latigue.
Kei’Mani Latigue, 13, was discovered in an abandoned and burned home in Toledo, Ohio, on Monday (March 24), six days after her family reported her missing on March 18.
The Lucas County Coroner’s Office has confirmed the harrowing details of how she died in a statement, revealing that Kei’Mani suffered “multiple incised wounds of the neck.”
Columbus Police Lt. Brian Steel also shared that the child was found in a horrific condition – she had allegedly been nearly decapitated, sexually assaulted, and her hands were cut off.
“This case is one of the most horrific cases I’ve ever heard. This is a 14-year-old that was murdered, raped, had her hands cut off, and her throat almost cut off,” Steel told press. “I’m glad our officers are OK. Our SWAT are the best of the best. We send a message: You murder somebody, do not come to this town.”
Following the horrific discovery, police arrested her father, Darnell Jones, who is now facing serious charges in connection with her death, PEOPLE reported.
An arrest warrant for Jones, who also goes by the surname Ogletree, was issued on Sunday (March 23), tied to her abduction.
He was taken into custody the next day after allegedly pulling a gun on a SWAT officer and was charged with felonious assault in Columbus. In addition, the Toledo Municipal Court has issued warrants for murder and third-degree felony abduction.
The warrant alleges that Jones took his daughter from her home without the consent of her guardian. It also states he gave “inconsistent statements” to investigators about his activity with her and their whereabouts and that he was the last person seen with Kei’Mani before she disappeared.
Kei’Mani was just days away from turning 14. Her mother, Tiara Kasten, shared that her daughter spent most of her time at school, playing basketball, or relaxing at home.
“I saw her on the 15th. Her dad brought her to my house,” Kasten told WTVG. “Apparently, my mom gave him permission, and we just spent time together, playing video games.”
Kei’Mani was a student at Spring Elementary School. A spokesperson for Toledo Public Schools released a statement after her death, saying: “The students and staff at Spring Elementary are deeply saddened by the loss of their friend and classmate, Kei’Mani Latigue.”
“Kei’Mani will be remembered as very friendly and someone who got along well with others,” they added.
On Tuesday (March 25) evening, the community gathered at the site where Kei’Mani’s body was found. Nearly 100 people came together, surrounding the area with candles, flowers, and balloons, according to the Toledo Blade.
“It’s a deep wound for the whole community,” attendee Sonya Rivera told the outlet. “It doesn’t matter if you’re from Waterville or Perrysburg, our community and our kids matter.”
Her classmate, 13-year-old Kaylenna Bullis, also came to honor Kei’Mani. “She was really nice, no matter what,” she said. “Even if people kept messing with her, picking on her, she would always be nice.”
Our thoughts are with Kei’Mani’s loved ones during this difficult time.
