CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Friends and family will gather Friday evening to remember 4-year-old Mejelic Young who investigators say was allegedly killed by her mother.
WCNC Charlotte previously reported that Charlotte Mecklenburg police had charged Malikah Diane Bennett with multiple charges after investigators found the body of her daughter, Mejelic Young, in her backyard. Bennett, who is charged with murder, likely killed her daughter in September 2020. On Thursday, May 27, CMPD said they had arrested and charged another woman in the case.
53-year-old Tammy Taylor Moffett is now charged with concealing a death and accessory after the fact to murder. Exact details about her involvement were not immediately available.
"Touch the heart of this dad, touch the heart of this grandmother, Lord," a pastor said as he leads the vigil off in prayer.
Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects and rally around a father who lost his child.
Candles were lit at the vigil, one week after Mejelic's light burned out.
"Majelli was buried in our backyard," Darreona Young, Mejelic's sister, said.
"Even though you don't have to be sad, because Mejelli will always be up there with God.
"Family and friends called the little girl 'Jelli,' and remember her as a girl who loved to laugh and play.
Several friends spoke, lifting up the family in prayer while letting them know they'll be there to support them along their long journey of grief.
Funeral arrangements are still being made, according to the family.
Contact Hunter Sáenz at hsaenz@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.