A mother of three is fighting for her life after being viciously mauled by dogs in a horrifying attack that has left her with catastrophic injuries. LaKesha Newsom, aged 35, was discovered partially clothed and critically injured in a shallow ditch on March 3, according to the Holly Springs Police Department.
Critical Condition and Hospitalisation
Officials reported that Newsom was conscious when found and able to inform them she had been attacked by dogs. She was airlifted to Regional One Hospital in Memphis, where her condition rapidly deteriorated. During the airlift, Newsom flatlined and had to be resuscitated, as confirmed by Fox 10 News.
Her mother, Rosie Young, shared harrowing details from the hospital, recounting her daughter's experience. 'She felt the dogs gnawing on her, eating on her,' Rosie told Fox. 'The only thing in her head was, "I want to live."' Rosie added words of encouragement, telling her daughter, 'For you to be here today, you have life in you.'
Arrest and Charges
Nearly three weeks after the attack, on March 23, officials arrested Sandra Harris, aged 54, in connection with the dog mauling. Harris has been charged with aggravated assault and manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life. She is currently being held at the Marshall County Sheriff's Department as the investigation continues.
Devastating Health Update
In a tragic turn of events, Newsom's sister, DeWaylia Young, provided an update on her condition. 'She has had her right arm and right leg amputated. She is currently heavily sedated and on the ventilator,' DeWaylia explained. The amputations were necessitated by a severe bacterial infection spreading rapidly throughout Newsom's body from the injuries sustained in the attack.
DeWaylia noted that medical professionals have indicated Newsom may not have much time left. 'In the middle of this unimaginable situation are her three children, who are now facing the possibility of losing their mother,' she said, highlighting the emotional toll on the family.
Community Support and Fundraising
To support Newsom's children during this crisis, a GoFundMe campaign has been established, nearly reaching its goal of $6,500. DeWaylia expressed the family's gratitude, stating, 'We are taking things moment by moment, holding onto every bit of time we have left with her. Any support, prayers, or shares mean more than words can express.'
Online, many have shared prayers and words of encouragement for the family. One user wrote, 'Sorry to hear this, pray she will recover and heal quickly,' while another added, 'This is so heartbreaking, sending so many prayers!' A third commented, 'I'm so sorry all of this is going on, sending prayers.'
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have confirmed that the incident remains under active investigation. The Holly Springs Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward by contacting them directly. The community awaits further developments as the legal process unfolds and the family continues to grapple with this devastating situation.
