On the morning of October 22, Michael Copeland realized that his daughter, Savannah, 13, was no longer in her room. After hours of searching without news, he managed to locate his cell phone in a wood located near their home, explains Paris Match. Alerted, the police quickly went to the scene and discovered, in a small dirt road, the lifeless body of the teenager.
Savannah, a bubbly and promising young girl, was loved for her bright smile and vivacious personality. She dreamed of a career in forensic anthropology, a dream that unfortunately would never see the light of day. Those close to her describe her as a talented cheerleader with a passion for horror filmsgymnastics and karate. A mixture of gentleness and strength which contrasts horribly with the brutality of the crime of which she was the victim.
A 15-year-old boy arrested
The same evening the body was discovered, the police arrested a 15-year-old boy, Malakiah Harris. The latter would have met Savannah in the woods around midnight, before stabbing her several times with a pocket knife. According to the first elements of the investigation, the teenager then continued on his way without trying to help his victim.
The horror of the crime shocked the small town of Knoxville. Especially since the young man, during his court hearing, appeared to show very little emotion and gave no explanation for his actions. Although he is a minor, Malakiah Harris should be tried as an adult because of the violence of his act.
From 15 to 60 years in prison
A trial is scheduled to begin on January 14, 2025. If the teenager is convicted of second-degree murder, he risks 15 to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. In preparation for the trial, the court will have to learn the background of Malakiah Harris and determine if this was a violent crime or if he killed Savannah unintentionally while trying to steal something from her.
As Savannah's family finds themselves plunged into pain, residents of Knoxville expressed their solidarity by paying tribute to the young victim. At the same place where his body was found, flowers, messages and objects were left by those who wanted to show their support.
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