Three days before her death, 10-year-old Rebekah Baptiste made a final escape attempt from horrific abuse. Found severely injured on a remote Arizona highway on July 27, she died days later in a Phoenix hospital.
Living off-grid in a yurt with her father Richard Baptiste and his girlfriend Anicia Woods, Rebekah had no access to basic needs. She had previously jumped from a window in Phoenix to flee.
Her injuries—brain hemorrhage, burns, missing toenails, and more—were described by doctors as “torture.” Woods, claiming nursing experience, dismissed the severity, and neither adult sought help.
Both now face murder, kidnapping, and child abuse charges. Two of Rebekah’s younger brothers, also allegedly abused, are in state custody.
Family and school officials say they made repeated reports to Arizona’s Department of Child Safety, which they claim were ignored. The agency denies mishandling, though a review is underway.
A chilling 911 call captured Woods’ calm voice reporting Rebekah was “barely breathing.”
Her uncle, Damon Hawkins, wrote: “You didn’t deserve this… I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you.”
