A heartbreaking case from Michigan has left a family shattered after their trusted babysitter and close friend admitted to killing their 3-year-old daughter.
Iesha Harris, 30, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of young Harmoni Henderson, a child described as full of life and love. The incident happened while Harris was babysitting the child in March 2024.
What Happened?
On March 17, 2024, Iesha Harris was taking care of 3-year-old Harmoni Henderson at a home in Michigan. Harris was a family friend and had been trusted by the child’s mother, Paris England. But instead of caring for the child, Harris reportedly locked both Harmoni and her own 1-year-old daughter in a bedroom so she could smoke marijuana.
When Harmoni, who was autistic and nonverbal, vomited on herself, Harris got angry. According to reports, she poured scalding hot water on the child and then slammed her head against the side of a bathtub, leading to fatal injuries.
Family’s Pain and Shock
Harmoni’s mother, Paris England, said she never imagined something like this could happen. “I would never in one million years think she would do this to my baby,” she told local news. Paris had trusted Harris completely and said they were friends before the tragedy.
“She was having a hard time. My baby is autistic, nonverbal. I think she got frustrated and she slammed my baby’s head against the tub,” Paris said in a tearful interview.
Remembering Harmoni
To help with funeral costs, Harmoni’s mother created a GoFundMe page last year. On the page, she wrote how Harmoni was “so full of life, love, and laughter.” The little girl was known for her big smile and joyful energy. The family continues to grieve their terrible loss.
Legal Proceedings
Iesha Harris has now pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, admitting her role in the child’s death. She will be sentenced soon, and prosecutors say justice must be served for the cruelty shown to an innocent child.
Warning About Trust
This case has also sent a powerful message to parents everywhere — be extremely careful about who you trust with your children, even if it’s someone close. Harmoni’s mother said she never suspected that her friend could ever hurt her daughter.