Mother of abducted child found dead died of ‘multiple sharp force injuries,’ coroner says
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT/WVUE/Gray News) - A woman found “brutally slain” in her home last week died due to “multiple sharp force injuries,” according to a Louisiana coroner.
Callie Brunett was allegedly killed by her ex-boyfriend, Daniel Callihan.
After allegedly killing Brunett, he allegedly kidnapped her two daughters, 4-year-old Erin and her 6-year-old sister.
Brunett’s father discovered her body early Thursday morning after she was reported missing the day before. Louisiana State Police issued an AMBER Alert for her two daughters.
Callihan was eventually captured in Jackson, Mississippi.
After he was captured, Erin was found dead in the woods. Her sister was found alive but injured and was taken to the hospital.
Callihan confessed to his crimes during a perp walk on Friday and said he had “no reason for what I did.”
“All I know is I was sober and only on Lexapro and off Lexapro, and I’m also diagnosed with multiple personality disorder,” he said.
Chief Joseph Wade of the Jackson Police Department speculated that the 3-year-old victim, is believed to have died from suffocation or asphyxiation, although the exact cause of death is pending the results from a forensic pathologist and medical examiner.
The chief confirmed there were no gunshot wounds.
Callihan is being charged with capital murder and sexual battery.
He also faces multiple charges in Tangipahoa, Louisiana, including first-degree murder in connection with the killing of Brunett and two counts of aggravated kidnapping and armed robbery.
Victoria Cox, a second suspect in the crimes, was also arrested. Cox also faces similar charges of capital murder and sexual battery.
Police say the pair may face additional charges in Mississippi, and federal charges will likely be known in the coming days.
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