GADSDEN, Ala. — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Gadsden community after the body of 1-year-old Blessence Pearl was discovered inside a hearse at West Gadsden Funeral Home early Saturday, August 9. What initially appeared to be a doll was soon revealed to be the lifeless form of the young child, prompting a homicide investigation.

By early Sunday, authorities had arrested 29-year-old Terica Pearl, Blessence’s mother, charging her with murder. She is being held without bond at the Etowah County Jail.

Devastated Community Rallies Around the Family

On Sunday night, funeral home staff and members of the community gathered for an emotional candlelight vigil to honor Blessence’s short life. West Gadsden Funeral Home director Dantez Robinson welcomed those who came together in prayer, sharing, “My heart is broken… We are so sad that this happened.”

An employee who discovered Blessence’s body expressed the grief felt by many, saying through tears, “I’ve got four girls of my own… that could have been one of ours,” underlining the shared heartbreak.

As families wept together, the funeral home announced it would provide services at no charge, emphasizing compassion amid the tragedy. An outpouring of love continues to offer solace to Blessence’s grieving family.

Swift Police Action Moves Investigation Forward

Gadsden law enforcement acted swiftly to secure the scene, launch a homicide investigation, and arrest Terica Pearl within 12 hours of the body’s discovery. Lt. Dusty Ford of Gadsden Police praised the effort: “In under 12 hours, the investigation moved from uncertainty to an arrest.”

Mayor Craig Ford commended the department’s investigative work while acknowledging that “an arrest doesn’t take away the hurt — but it’s one step closer to justice for this child.”

A Second Tragedy in Family History

This is not the first time Terica Pearl has faced personal tragedy. In February 2011, when she was only 15, her 4-week-old infant daughter Janaiha perished in a house fire in the room where she was sleeping.

What Happens Next

• Cause of death: An autopsy is underway to determine the cause and manner of Blessence’s death.

• Community appeal: Officials implore anyone with information to come forward and aid in the investigation.

• Family support: Vigil and funeral plans are in motion, with the funeral home offering services at no cost and the community providing emotional and spiritual support.

This heartbreaking case has opened deep wounds in Gadsden — a city united in grief and seeking justice for a little life tragically lost.