Indianapolis, IN – A 3-year-old girl is fighting for her life after suffering severe brain injuries allegedly caused by repeated abuse from her father and his girlfriend, according to police and court documents.
The child, identified by family as Luna, was hospitalized at Riley Hospital for Children, where doctors reported a high probability of death due to brain bleeding and trauma.
Disturbing Discovery at Apartment Complex
Police were called last week to an apartment complex on Waterfront Drive on the city’s west side. Responding officers found Luna unresponsive and covered in bruises from head to toe.
Doctors later determined she had the lowest possible coma score before being declared brain dead.
Her biological mother, Lexus Burnette, said she had not seen Luna since May, when she lost custody. She claims she had warned the court system that Luna was being abused, but her concerns went unaddressed.
“I tried to tell them this is what I saw and what I’m noticing, and they kept ignoring me,” Burnette said.
Suspect Confession and Charges
The girl’s father, Joshua Cajigas, 24, initially claimed that a dresser fell on Luna. However, police say he later admitted to routinely beating her as punishment, citing “disrespect” and repeated bed-wetting as reasons for the discipline as reported by Fox59.
Cajigas is charged with:
- Neglect resulting in catastrophic injury (Level 1 felony)
- Two counts of battery (Level 3 felonies)
His girlfriend, Mellie Jackson, 22, is charged with:
- Neglect resulting in serious injury (Level 3 felony)
Both suspects remain in custody.
Calls for Action From Authorities
Indianapolis Metro Police Officer Tommy Thompson condemned the abuse, emphasizing the duty adults have to protect children.
“We as adults are the only advocate and voice for these young children, and we have to do our part so they live and see another day,” Thompson said.
Authorities urge anyone who suspects abuse to contact Indiana’s child abuse hotline and note that parents struggling with childcare challenges can access community resources for support.
Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention
Child welfare experts stress that early intervention can save lives. Warning signs of abuse may include unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, and sudden withdrawal from social interaction.
If abuse is suspected:
- Call 911 in emergencies
- Report to the state’s child abuse hotline
- Document observed injuries or troubling behavior
- Seek help from social services and child advocacy centers
What steps do you believe courts and agencies should take to better protect at-risk children in Indiana? Share your thoughts with us.
