• Kaylee Fontenot and Taylor Broussard charged with first-degree murder of infant daughter
• Autopsy reveals extreme dehydration, broken ribs, and severed lower spine causing death
• Father surrenders to police after several days on the run

OPELOUSAS, La. (TDR) — A Louisiana mother and father have been taken into custody after being charged with first-degree murder in the death of their 2-month-old daughter, who authorities say suffered unimaginable abuse including a severed spine that caused fatal internal bleeding.

Police found the infant on the evening of Oct. 25 after being called to a home in the 200 block of North Liberty Street for a medical emergency around 8:09 p.m. The child was not breathing, and responders immediately attempted lifesaving measures. She was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead upon arrival.

Autopsy reveals horrific injuries

In a press release issued Oct. 31, the Opelousas Police Department said an autopsy revealed that the infant “suffered severe neglect and physical abuse.” This included extreme dehydration and malnourishment, broken rib bones with signs of healing, and a severed lower spine resulting in internal bleeding, which ultimately caused the child’s death.

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

The autopsy findings painted a disturbing picture of prolonged abuse and neglect. The broken ribs showing signs of healing indicated the infant had suffered multiple injuries over time, while the severe malnutrition and dehydration suggested systematic neglect.

“Our hearts are with this infant who suffered unimaginable abuse,” said Opelousas Police Chief Graig LeBlanc in a statement. “This case is in its early stages, and our investigators are working tirelessly to uncover every detail.”

Parents charged with multiple felonies

Police obtained arrest warrants for the parents, Kaylee Fontenot and Taylor Broussard, both 18, on charges of first-degree murder, cruelty to juveniles, and second-degree battery. Through the investigation, police confirmed the infant had been in the parents’ exclusive custody since birth.

Investigators with the Special Operations Division located and arrested Fontenot on Friday, Oct. 31, and took her into custody. Broussard remained at large for several days as police appealed to the public for assistance in locating him.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

In an update on Nov. 3, police confirmed that Broussard had turned himself in. Both parents were booked into the St. Landry Parish Jail where they are currently being held. It was not immediately clear when they are scheduled to appear in court.

Severe penalties under Louisiana law

First-degree murder in Louisiana carries the harshest possible penalties: life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. The charge applies when someone kills another person while committing certain violent crimes, including cruelty to juveniles, or when the victim is under 12 years old.

Louisiana law specifically includes cruelty to juveniles as one of the underlying felonies that can elevate a killing to first-degree murder. The statute recognizes that crimes against children warrant the most severe punishment available under state law.

If convicted of first-degree murder, Fontenot and Broussard face either a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole or capital punishment. The decision of whether to seek the death penalty rests with prosecutors.

Both suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Details about whether they have retained legal counsel have not been publicly released.

Community reacts with shock

The case has drawn widespread outrage in Opelousas, a city of about 15,000 residents approximately 60 miles west of Baton Rouge. Community members expressed disbelief over the severity of the allegations against the young parents.

Child welfare advocates have called for greater vigilance in identifying early signs of abuse in vulnerable households. Local authorities have reiterated that anyone who suspects a child is being mistreated should report it immediately to the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services or local law enforcement.

Investigation remains active

The Opelousas Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death. Forensic specialists are analyzing additional evidence from the home, and investigators are reviewing medical and digital records to determine how long the alleged abuse took place.

Police have not disclosed a potential motive or specific timeline for when the fatal injuries occurred. Authorities confirmed there was no prior involvement from social services with the family before the infant’s death.

Chief LeBlanc asked the public for “patience, cooperation, and assistance in helping us pursue justice” as the investigation continues. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Opelousas Police Department at (337) 948-2500.

Should states implement mandatory reporting requirements for healthcare providers who observe signs of infant malnutrition or healing fractures during routine medical visits?

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10