Prosecutors have filed charges against a 12-year-old Michigan girl for allegedly throwing acid on an 11-year-old girl at a playground in Detroit, causing chemical burns on her body. Wayne County Prosecuting Attorney Kym Worthy announced that the suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, is facing charges of assault with intent to do great bodily harm and felonious assault.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, Worthy stated, "This is an extremely troubling set of allegations. Instant, horrible decision-making can have lifelong effects on others. There is no excuse for this."
According to FOX News, the incident occurred on July 9, when the victim, identified as Deaira Summers, was at a local park with her siblings and cousins. An altercation between the attacker and one of Deaira's cousins reportedly preceded the attack. According to Dominique Summers, Deaira's mother, the substance used in the assault was provided by the attacker's mother.
Attacker's Mother Alleged Involvement in the Playground Attack
"Her mother met her in the park and gave her the chemical to throw on the kids, and she told the kids that's what they get for messing with her daughter," Dominique Summers revealed in an interview with Fox Detroit.
Fortunately, no one else was harmed, but Deaira suffered severe burns, with smoke emanating from her body and holes appearing in her clothes. She was immediately taken to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with second- and third-degree burns on her back.
Describing the immediate aftermath of the attack, Deaira recounted, "Two seconds after it hit me, it started burning." The young victim has experienced difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite since the incident occurred.
According to Fox 2 News, The Detroit Public Schools Community District is conducting an investigation into the incident since it took place on school district property. However, they have clarified that the incident does not involve their employees or any school-related event.
"The incident did not involve our employees, nor was it connected to a District or school event," the district stated. "This is a community matter involving two families that do not both attend our school district or the school."
The 12-year-old girl charged in the case has been prohibited from contacting Deaira or any witnesses. She is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday to face the charges brought against her.
The incident has shocked the local community and highlighted the potential long-lasting consequences of impulsive actions. As Deaira continues her recovery, the community hopes for justice and support for the young victim and her family during this challenging time.
According to USA Today, Dominique Summers started a GoFundMe campaign after the incident to help with Deaira's medical costs. The campaign seeks to provide financial support and assistance to the family as they navigate the aftermath of the traumatic attack. Many community members and concerned individuals have rallied together, expressing their solidarity and offering donations to aid in Deaira's recovery.
Community Outrage: Investigation Launched as Detroit Grapples with Shocking Acid Attack
In response to the outpouring of support, Dominique Summers expressed her gratitude and emphasized the importance of helping Deaira heal, both physically and emotionally. The generosity and kindness shown during this difficult time have overwhelmed the family.
As news of the incident spreads, it serves as a reminder of the need for community awareness, education, and intervention to prevent such acts of violence among young individuals. The case has sparked discussions about the importance of fostering empathy, developing conflict resolution skills, and promoting nonviolent ways to address disputes among children.
The legal proceedings will shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the attack and determine the consequences for the 12-year-old girl responsible. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of impulsive actions and the need for a collective effort to ensure the safety and well-being of children within our communities.
As the court date approaches, the community stands united in seeking justice for Deaira and sending a strong message that acts of violence will not be tolerated. The hope is that the legal process will bring closure and healing to Deaira and her family, and that this incident will serve as a catalyst for fostering safer environments where children can thrive without fear of such horrific attacks.
