FAIRPLAIN, W.Va. — The family of a 10-month-old girl who died Wednesday after police say she was sexually assaulted has released the following statement:
At this time, we regret to say that the injuries sustained from the attack on our child, Emmaleigh Elizabeth Barringer, have resulted in her death.
First, we would like to thank the Jackson County police for their thorough investigation. We believe that it points directly to Benjamin Taylor as the person responsible for this heinous act.
Second, we want to thank the hospital and staff at CAMC for their efforts in attempting to save and sustain the life of our child.
Finally, we would like to assure anyone with any doubt that this crime against an innocent child was solely perpetrated by a monster who had disguised himself as a caring and supporting friend.
Emmaleigh’s mother and surviving siblings were victims in this and are guilty only of placing trust in the hands of a “wolf in sheep’s clothing”.
We have set up a GoFundMe account for donations from the public to help the victims recover from this tragedy and aid in the funeral and burial costs that will be incurred.
Thank you
The family lists the GoFundMe account as https://www.gofundme.com/3oe5us
Jackson County Sheriff Tony Boggs said charges against Benjamin Taylor will be increased to murder Thursday.