What Happened to Rebekah Baptiste

Authorities in Arizona say that 10-year-old Rebekah Baptiste died in July after what investigators describe as prolonged abuse inside her home. Her father, Richard Baptiste, and stepmother, Anicia Woods, have been charged in connection with her death.

Rebekah was found unresponsive near a highway on July 27. She passed away three days later. In the weeks that followed, law enforcement said they uncovered reports indicating that Rebekah had been living in an unsafe environment for some time.

According to records cited by local media, Rebekah sought help months earlier, when at just 9 years old she fled her home and went to a nearby gas station, saying she was afraid of her stepmother. Despite repeated concerns reported to child protective services — including calls from Rebekah’s school — she remained in the home.

Investigators later shared in court that Rebekah showed signs of severe neglect and abuse. Authorities described the case as deeply distressing and emphasized the need to understand how warning signs went unanswered.

Rebekah’s school community and local residents have mourned her loss, remembering a little girl who should have been protected and cared for.

Both Richard Baptiste and Anicia Woods have been charged with murder, as well as multiple counts related to child abuse. Court records do not show whether either has entered a plea or retained an attorney.

If you believe a child may be in danger, you can call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) or visit www.childhelp.org. The hotline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, you can text “STRENGTH” to 741-741 to reach a trained crisis counselor.