12-Year-Old Tennessee Girl Allegedly Suffocated 8-Year-Old Cousin While Sleeping

Prosecutors in Tennessee have charged a 12-year-old girl with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence after the girl allegedly suffocated her 8-year-old cousin as she slept.

A 12-year-old girl in Tennessee has been charged with the first-degree murder of her 8-year-old cousin, sparking outrage and disbelief in the community. The shocking incident occurred on July 15th at a home in Humboldt, Tennessee.

According to prosecutors, home security video footage captured the alleged crime. The video reportedly shows the older girl using bedding to suffocate her cousin, Demeria Hollingsworth, while she slept in the top bunk of their shared bed.

12-Year-Old Tennessee Girl Allegedly Suffocated 8-Year-Old Cousin While Sleeping

After the alleged murder, the older girl, who will turn 13 this week, reportedly cleaned up the victim and repositioned her body. Authorities were alerted to the incident and arrived at the scene, where they apprehended the suspect.

The victim's mother, Rayana Smith, has identified her daughter as Demeria. She described her as a sweet child who enjoyed reading, swimming, and playing with her friends. "She was my baby," said Smith.

12-Year-Old Tennessee Girl Allegedly Suffocated 8-Year-Old Cousin While Sleeping

The motive for the alleged murder remains unclear. However, Smith revealed that the girls had argued over an iPhone before the incident. She expressed regret for not retrieving her daughter after learning of the dispute.

District Attorney General Frederick Agee has stated that his office is petitioning to have the child transferred to Circuit Court to be tried as an adult. This would allow for a potentially more severe sentence.

"I consider this to be one of the most disturbing violent acts committed by either an adult or juvenile that my office has prosecuted," said Agee.

The Humboldt community has been left reeling from the tragedy. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the victim's family with funeral expenses.

Metro Nashville Public Schools confirmed that Demeria attended Cockrill Elementary School. Principal Casey Campbell released a statement expressing the school community's profound grief.

"Demeria was a beloved student who had been part of Cockrill since Pre-K," said Campbell. "She was known for her hard work, intelligence, and sweet demeanor. Her passing has left all of us at Cockrill devastated."

The suspect faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. If convicted as an adult, she could face significant prison time. The transfer hearing is scheduled to be held shortly, and the outcome will determine the course of the legal proceedings.

The tragic incident has raised concerns about violence among youth and the importance of addressing disputes peacefully. Authorities and community leaders are urging parents and guardians to be vigilant and to seek help if they witness or suspect any signs of aggression or violence in children.