Multiple prior requests for intervention from family members, neighbors, and friends went completely unheeded before two young girls were tragically found dead from starvation and dehydration in Ladson, according to a public statement released on behalf of their grieving father.
The harrowing incident came to light on September 29, 2026, when young sisters Emory and Harlow Deacon were discovered dead inside a Ladson residence. Following the grim discovery, the Charleston County Coroner’s Office officially declared the deaths as homicides resulting from severe neglect.
Arrests Made in Connection to Child Neglect Homicides
In response to the horrific findings, local law enforcement authorities swiftly took action. On September 30, 2026, police arrested 31-year-old Justine May of Ladson, formally charging her with two counts of homicide by child neglect.
The arrest brought immediate local and regional attention to the systemic failures that may have allowed the dangerous living conditions to persist. Investigators began combing through timeline details to understand how the severe malnourishment and dehydration went unaddressed by those living in proximity to the victims.
Father Breaks Silence Through Legal Representation
Zack Deacon, the father of Emory and Harlow, broke his silence through a statement delivered by his legal counsel, prominent attorney Gedney M. Howe IV. The statement shed light on a heartbreaking reality: this tragedy could have potentially been prevented if external warnings had triggered official intervention.
According to Howe, a wide circle of concerned individuals, including family members, close friends, local neighbors, and even Justine May’s own parents, had repeatedly attempted to secure aid and welfare checks for the children prior to the tragic discovery on September 29.
“Family members, friends, neighbors, and May’s own parents had repeatedly attempted to secure aid for the children prior to the tragedy,” stated Gedney M. Howe IV, representing Zack Deacon.
Community Outcry and Investigation Into Missed Red Flags
The revelation that multiple adults in the children’s lives tried to sound the alarm has sparked widespread community outrage and raised serious questions regarding child welfare response protocols in the area. As the legal proceedings against Justine May move forward, investigators are expected to examine the nature and frequency of the prior outreach made by the family and neighbors.
Child advocates and local community groups are calling for stricter accountability and faster emergency responses when third parties report suspected child abuse or severe neglect. For Zack Deacon and his remaining family members, the focus remains on honoring the memories of Emory and Harlow while pushing for full accountability through the judicial system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the victims in the Ladson tragedy?
The victims are two young sisters named Emory Deacon and Harlow Deacon, who tragically lost their lives due to severe neglect.
What was the official cause of death determined by authorities?
The Charleston County Coroner’s Office declared the deaths of the two toddlers to be homicides resulting from severe neglect, specifically noting starvation and dehydration.
Who has been charged in connection with the deaths?
On September 30, 2026, 31-year-old Justine May of Ladson was arrested and charged with two counts of homicide by child neglect.
What did the girls’ father reveal through his attorney?
Through his attorney, Gedney M. Howe IV, the girls’ father, Zack Deacon, revealed that multiple prior requests for help and intervention had been made by family members, friends, neighbors, and May’s own parents, but went unheeded.
When did these tragic events take place?
The young girls were found dead on September 29, 2026, and the suspect was arrested the following day, September 30, 2026.
