The trial of Celeste Owens, who stands accused of the murder of 8-year-old Amari Hall, has become a focal point in Gwinnett County following chilling testimonies. Owens, the girlfriend of Hall's mother, Brittney Hall, could take the stand as soon as today. Earlier proceedings were marked by grim details presented by Gwinnett County crime scene investigator Kea Jimenez and Detective Randy Blackburn, shedding light on Amari's final moments and the alleged efforts to conceal her death.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Owens is accused of striking Amari over the head, wrapping her body in trash bags, and disposing of her in a wooded area near Stone Mountain Freeway. The prosecution contends that this followed a fabricated story by Owens and Brittney Hall about the child's disappearance. Detective Blackburn testified about surveillance footage that placed Owens at the scene, "Yes, that is correct. She is standing right there waiting for the Uber or Lyft." indicating a calculated facade surrounding the child’s final whereabouts.
Disturbing indications of a cover-up surfaced when Detective Blackburn unveiled that Owens had searched for, and deleted, "unusual topics" on her phone, as highlighted in Atlanta News First. Blackburn's testimony included Owens' purchase of cleaning products like bleach and latex gloves from a dollar store, actions that appeared to implicate preparation for hiding the tragic act.
Amari's discovery was described by Investigator Jimenez in graphic detail, with three white-colored trash bags encasing the body and signs of lacerations on her arms. Amari’s younger sister previously provided testimony that painted a harrowing picture of the abuse Amari suffered, involving her mother placing toilet paper in her mouth. Owens' role in the child's life, as per documentation at the trial, casts a shadow of urgent questioning upon the nature of her care and Amari's tragic end.
Celeste Owens faces murder charges along with Brittney Hall, who will be tried separately. The anticipated testimony, which according to court schedules, might unfold before the weekend.
