GADSDEN, Ala. (WIAT) — Officials said a Gadsden woman was arrested after her 1-year-old daughter was found dead inside a hearse over the weekend.
Family members identified the child as Blessence Pearl. She was found Saturday morning inside a hearse at West Gadsden Funeral Home.
Records show Terica Pearl, the child’s mother, is facing a capital murder charge. She is accused of intentionally strangling her daughter with a thick robe string. Pearl was arrested less than 12 hours after the discovery.
“We want to make sure that we get justice for that victim,” said Lt. Dusty Ford, public information officer for the Gadsden Police Department. “We try to treat them like that’s our family. Being able to close this case in under 12 hours is a big deal.”
Funeral home managing director Dantez Robinson said West Gadsden Funeral Home will cover the cost of the funeral arrangements for the family.
“The day is pending for the services, but they are very hurt,” Robinson said. “They are very thankful to everyone for the outpouring of love, support and the donations.”
The Gadsden community gathered for a prayer vigil in memory of Blessence on Sunday night. Police said the case is considered closed, but it will reopen if new information comes to light.
“Right now, we are comfortable enough to be able to say that the person that was arrested did in fact commit that crime,” Ford said.
Pearl is being held without bond at the Etowah County Jail.
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