A Louisiana sheriff’s office confirmed that one of the suspects in the slayings of a mother and her 3-year-old daughter last week confessed to the brutal acts of violence. The victims were identified as Callie Brunett, a 35-year-old mother from Loranger, Louisiana, and her 3-year-old daughter, Erin. Brunett’s 6-year-old daughter, Jalie, was also abducted and injured but survived. The girls were abducted from their home in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, and the mother was found brutally murdered on June 13. Hours later, Erin’s body was found in Jackson, Mississippi, and a suspect was apprehended. Daniel Callihan, who had dated the mother on and off for more than a year, was arrested on charges of murder and sexual assault in the case.
Authorities confirmed that Callihan confessed to the murders, and the details were verified by the surviving 6-year-old victim. The crime scene at the Burnetts’ home was described as disturbing, and the delay in issuing an Amber Alert was criticized. The alert was not sent out for more than three hours due to protocol and required paperwork. Despite this delay, once the alert was issued, it played a crucial role in locating the girls and the suspect. Chief Joseph Wade identified the second suspect as Victoria Cox, a 32-year-old female acquaintance of Callihan, who was also arrested on charges of capital murder and sexual assault. Evidence of human trafficking was found at the location where the children were located, including small animal cages.
During his arrest, Callihan confessed to the crimes and stated that he had no reason for his actions. He claimed to be sober at the time of the crimes and expressed no intention of fighting the charges against him, saying that lethal injection is the easiest punishment for him. The collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and Jackson police, led to the arrest of both suspects. The horrific nature of the crimes and the quick response of law enforcement eventually led to the apprehension of the suspects and the rescue of the surviving victim. The case has raised concerns about the prevalence of human trafficking and the need for swift action in cases of such brutality.
The victims, Callie Brunett and her young daughters, have left a community in shock and mourning. The brutal nature of the crimes and the subsequent confession of the suspects have added to the devastation felt by those who knew the family. The case has highlighted the importance of prompt responses in cases of abduction and violence, as well as the need for measures to prevent such heinous acts from occurring. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in different states have shown the value of cooperation in solving complex cases like this one. The details of the case have sparked discussions about the causes of such violence and the potential signs that could have alerted authorities to the danger posed by the suspects.
The surviving victim, Jalie, will now face the difficult task of recovering from the trauma she endured and adjusting to life without her mother and sister. The community and law enforcement agencies will continue to support her through this challenging time and seek justice for the victims. The case serves as a reminder of the dangers that exist in society and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children. The suspects in the case will face legal proceedings, and the court will determine the appropriate punishment for their heinous acts. The community will also come together to mourn the loss of Callie and Erin Brunett and support Jalie as she navigates the aftermath of the tragic events.
