Jensen La Vende
Senior Reporter
jensen.lavende@guardian.co.tt
Tricia Villaruel, the mother of Amarah Lallite, the four-year-old who was beheaded last Monday, is thanking the country for all the support she has received since the death of her child.
In a media statement, Villaruel said it was a pity that it took the death of her child to bring the community together, but she was grateful knowing that her child would never be forgotten.
"Though the road ahead is daunting, we find solace in knowing that she will not be forgotten, and her memory will endure as a beacon of love and light. My heart overflows with gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support we've received during this unimaginably difficult time. Your kindness has been a beacon of light in our darkest days.
"Though our precious daughter's life was cut short, the love and compassion shown by the community and country give us strength to endure. Thank you for standing with us, for remembering our sweet baby, and for helping us navigate this painful journey. Your support has meant more than words can express."
On Friday, Amarah's stepfather, Isan Contant, was charged with her murder. Police reported that around 10.10 pm on April 8, Amarah’s mother visited the Arouca Police Station with her clothes tattered, seeking help. The officers who took her information later escorted her back to her home, where the child’s body was found in one of the bedrooms. Her head was found in a barrel at the back of the house.
Amarah’s autopsy revealed she died of blunt force trauma to the head and decapitation.
In her release yesterday, Villaruel added, "I want to thank the officers of the Arouca Police Station, first responders, SWAT, Homicide and all other divisions of our protective services that were attached to this case, for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts which provided a semblance of solace during a dark time for me my family and those that knew Amarah and loved her."