Three Charged Months After 2-Year-Old Was Dragged Into the Woods and Killed by Neighbor’s Dog

A tragedy that devastated an Arkansas community has taken a new legal turn months after a 2-year-old girl was fatally attacked by a neighbor’s loose dog.

Authorities announced the arrests of Earnest Jackson, 54, Christina Hart, 41, and MaKayla Jackson, 21, who each face charges of endangering the welfare of a minor in connection with the death of Celeste Jackson. No homicide charges have been announced, and it is unclear whether the defendants have entered pleas or retained attorneys.

According to investigators, deputies responded on March 28 after receiving reports of an animal attack involving the toddler. Police say a neighbor’s dog, which was allegedly not properly restrained, attacked Celeste and dragged her into a wooded area near the home. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office said the dog was later taken into the custody of animal control as investigators examined exactly how the attack occurred and whether those responsible for supervising the child or controlling the animal failed to prevent the tragedy.

Family members described Celeste as a bright, joyful little girl who loved watching Ms. Rachel, Bluey, and Stitch. A fundraiser created after her death remembered her as a child who “brought so much joy” to everyone around her and helped cover funeral expenses as the family struggled with the unimaginable loss.

While the criminal case moves forward, the heartbreaking loss of a 2-year-old child continues to leave a community grieving—and raises renewed questions about pet responsibility, child safety, and accountability when preventable tragedies occur.