In a tragic incident, a two-year-old girl from Florida, USA, met a horrifying fate when she was strangled in her crib by her mother’s severely malnourished 8-foot Burmese Python.
The snake named “Gypsy” took the life of Shaiunna Hare in 2009. The mother, Jaren Hare, 32, from Sumter County, had inadequately secured the snake’s enclosure with only a quilt and failed to provide it with enough food. While Shaiunna was sleeping, the snake slithered into her bed, wrapped around her neck, and attempted to consume her.
In a frantic 911 call, Darnell, Hare’s boyfriend, expressed his shock and anger, stating that the snake had escaped its cage and strangled the baby. He then fatally stabbed the snake owned by his girlfriend.
Hare was convicted of aggravated manslaughter and child neglect for her daughter’s death. She was released in 2021 after serving a 12-year prison sentence. Despite this tragedy, Hare and Darnell maintained their relationship while incarcerated and planned to marry upon their release, although they will be on parole until 2026.
Darnell, Hare’s live-in boyfriend, also received a 12-year prison term for the same charges. He was released in January 2021, nine months before Hare, according to state records.
When approached for comment by News 6 at a number associated with Darnell, Hare declined to speak, as reported by Click Orlando.
During the trial, the defense attorneys argued that the couple never expected their previously gentle pet to harm anyone.
Shaiunna’s father, Joseph Gilkerson, filed a lawsuit against the Florida Department of Children and Families, alleging negligence for failing to protect the toddler after an investigator had seen the python in the house. A confidential settlement was reached between Joseph and the department.
The jury, during sentencing, rejected the defense’s claim that the incident was an accident. The foreperson explained that it was their duty to ensure the child’s safety, expressing regret but believing the verdict was correct.
After the verdict was read, Darnell tried to console Hare. During the trial, the Assistant State Attorney presented photos of Shaianna to the jury, emphasizing that the responsibility for the child’s death lay with the defendants, not the snake, as it was a wild animal.
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