Authorities in Piedmont, Alabama, have charged a juvenile with murder following the death of 10-year-old Katheryn Bigbee.
The incident began Friday night when the Piedmont Police Department received a report of a missing child at 10:51 p.m. Officers arrived at a local residence where they discovered the girl’s body inside the home.
The Calhoun County Coroner’s Office later confirmed the identity of the deceased as Bigbee.
Police confirmed that a second juvenile, whose identity has been withheld due to their age, was taken into custody. Investigators have not released specific details regarding the cause of death or the relationship between the two children, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the ages of those involved.
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“This is a heartbreaking situation for everyone involved and for our entire community,” Piedmont Police Chief Nathan Johnson said. “We ask that you keep the family affected by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Piedmont Elementary School, where Bigbee was a student, issued a statement describing her as an enthusiastic reader with a “joyful, spunky personality.” The school confirmed that grief counselors would be made available to support students and staff.
Blake Trammel, a relative of the victim, spoke to the media regarding the family’s loss.
“She was a light in any room she walked into,” Trammel said. “I cannot express the pain, guilt, and emptiness that has come from all of this. We don’t have answers, only more questions.”
The investigation remains active as local officials work to determine the circumstances surrounding the event.
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