In a harrowing case that has shaken the Indianapolis community, a 3-year-old girl named Luna is fighting for her life after enduring what authorities describe as prolonged and brutal abuse at the hands of her father and his girlfriend.
**The Discovery
Police were called to an apartment complex on Waterfront Drive last week, where they found Luna unresponsive, her small body covered in bruises from head to toe. She was immediately rushed to Riley Hospital for Children, where doctors revealed she had suffered severe brain bleeding and was given the lowest possible coma score before brain death. Her chances of survival are tragically slim.
**Conflicting Stories and a Chilling Confession
Initially, the couple claimed that a dresser had fallen on Luna. But under further investigation, the truth unraveled. Her father, 24-year-old Joshua Cajigas, later admitted to routinely “disciplining” her, citing reasons such as bedwetting and “disrespectful” behavior. His girlfriend, 22-year-old Mellie Jackson, was also implicated and charged with neglect resulting in serious injury.
**A Mother’s Warning Ignored
Luna’s biological mother, Lexus Burnette, had lost custody of her daughter in May. She says she repeatedly warned the court system about signs of abuse, but her pleas were dismissed. “I tried to tell them what I saw and what I was noticing, and they kept ignoring me,” Burnette said. “They could have protected her, and they didn’t. Instead, they tormented her.”
**A Call to Action
Indianapolis Metro Police Officer Tommy Thompson expressed outrage and sorrow over the case. “We as adults are the only advocate and voice for these young children,” he said. “And we have to do our part so they live and see another day.” Authorities are urging the public to report any signs of child abuse immediately. Resources are available for parents who feel overwhelmed, and officials stress that seeking help is far better than resorting to violence.
**Protecting the Vulnerable
This case is a grim reminder of the importance of vigilance and compassion. Luna’s story, though heartbreaking, must serve as a wake-up call. Every child deserves safety, love, and protection. If you suspect abuse, speak up. Your voice could be the one that saves a life.
Let Luna’s fight for survival not be in vain. Let it be the spark that ignites change.