1 child dead, 1 alive after Louisiana Amber Alert suspect arrested in Mississippi

from: Cameron Smith, Kaitlin Howell

Posted: June 13, 2024 / 6:58 p.m. EDT

Updated: June 13, 2024 / 6:58 p.m. EDT

JACKSON, Mississippi (WJTV) – The search for two Louisiana girls suspected of being abducted after their mother’s murder ended tragically in Mississippi.

Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade said the suspect at the center of an Amber alert, Daniel Callihan, was caught after a chase in Jackson.

According to Wade, four-year-old Erin Brunett was found dead in a wooded area. Her sister, six-year-old Jalie Brunett, was found alive and taken to a hospital in Jackson for treatment.

Wade said he did not believe Callihan was the girls’ father, but did not elaborate.

The police chief said there was evidence at the location where Callihan was found that could be linked to human trafficking, including small animal cages. Wade said Jackson police have contacted human trafficking investigators to examine the scene.

Authorities said an Amber Alert was issued Thursday for the two girls who were abducted after their mother was murdered in Loranger, Louisiana.

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards said 35-year-old Callie Brunett was found dead on the floor of her bedroom in her locked mobile home by her father. Her parents had reported her missing 24 hours earlier and had last spoken to her Tuesday morning.