Mental health system failed woman accused of fatally stabbing 7-year-old girl, lawyer says

October 7, 2026 - 18:43

A public defender representing Shavon Gayden says the deadly weekend stabbing of a 7-year-old girl could have been prevented if the suspect had received better psychiatric care. Gayden remained hospitalized Wednesday as authorities continued to investigate the attack that killed Eddimar Hernandez-Chacon.

The lawyer told reporters that Gayden had a documented history of mental illness and had sought treatment multiple times before the incident. According to the defense, those requests for help went unanswered or were handled inadequately, leaving Gayden without the support she needed.

The case has renewed scrutiny on how local agencies respond to people in psychiatric crisis. Advocates say gaps in the system often leave families without options until a situation turns violent. They point to long wait times for beds, limited outpatient programs, and a shortage of crisis teams as ongoing problems.

Investigators have not released details about what led up to the stabbing. Gayden has not yet been formally charged while she receives medical care. A court date has not been set.

Community members have started leaving flowers and candles near the scene. A vigil is planned for later this week to honor the young victim.