Police in Bakersfield, California, have arrested a man for allegedly killing his girlfriend's daughter after she succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital.
Clint Mason, 38, was dating the mom of 8-year-old Ger’Mya Amirah Alexander at the time of her death, People reports.
Alexander was found unresponsive on Wednesday, and efforts by paramedics to revive her failed. She was pronounced dead after arriving at a local hospital.
Bakersfield Police Department told ABC23 there were "obvious signs of trauma" and Alexander was not breathing when police arrived at the apartment.
Mason was arrested the next day at a Motel 6 in Inglewood when he was identified as the boyfriend of the 8-year-old's mother.
On a GoFundMe fundraiser for the little girl, a family member wrote that Alexander "always wanted peace" and was a "spiritual little girl."
"On March 18, 2020 the family of 8-year-old Ger’Mya lives were changed forever. GerMya was tragically killed early morning Wednesday. At this time the family is facing a difficult time and are asking for support at this time of grief. Ger’Mya was such a beautiful smart sweet little girl, she had the brightest smile, supportive, hardworking, and very understanding," the GoFundMe description reads.
"She always made those around her smile. At such a young age and so full of life she made a difference in everyone and cared deeply about the people she crossed. She was always a big help to her little brothers who will miss her dearly," the statement continued.
The family added that the situation was devastating and that they appreciated all the support and help they were receiving.
Mason was brought to Kern County Jail after his arrest on Thursday and is being held without bail according to ABC23. He was charged with first-degree murder, torture and willful cruelty, The Bakersfield Californian reported. He will be arraigned on March 30.