Bodycam footage from a Cincinnati suburb has revealed a harrowing scene as first responders rushed to save an infant girl who had been shot in the head by her own grandmother, Mia Desiree Harris. The incident took place in Liberty Township, Ohio, and the footage shows frantic moments when authorities were informed of the shocking event. Despite the severity of the injury, the baby survived, though the trauma left permanent consequences for her health. Harris, who was arrested at the scene, recently pleaded guilty to felonious assault and is now serving a prison sentence of nine to 12 years. She will be eligible for parole in December 2032.
The incident unfolded when Harris, who had been involved in a violent outburst, shot at several family members before intentionally turning the gun on the infant. Witnesses at the scene were quick to alert authorities, frantically urging them to apprehend Harris. “Mia Harris. Mia Harris. Get her right now,” one witness can be heard saying on the bodycam footage from December 9, 2023. The rapid response of law enforcement helped to secure the area and bring the situation under control.
A criminal complaint filed in the case outlined the disturbing sequence of events, detailing how Harris not only shot the baby but also caused harm to another individual. Harris was accused of “knowingly” causing “serious physical harm” to a victim by striking them in the face with her fist. Following the shooting, Harris then broke down a locked bedroom door after firing multiple shots through it. This escalation of violence contributed to the severity of the situation and highlighted the dangerous state of mind Harris was in at the time.
Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones condemned the act in strong terms, calling it “one of the most disgusting, vile criminal acts I’ve ever seen.” He expressed outrage over the fact that Harris, the grandmother of the child, was the perpetrator. “What makes it even worse is this is the baby’s grandmother,” Jones said. “She went and shot this child and doesn’t appear to have any remorse whatsoever.” The sheriff’s words reflected the shock and sorrow felt by those involved in the aftermath, from the family members to the first responders. He also extended his sympathy to the medical personnel, deputies, and others who were forced to witness such a traumatic event.
The case raised questions about the state of Harris’ mental health and her motivations. While details about her personal background and the reasons for her violent actions remain unclear, the shocking nature of the crime has left an indelible impact on the community. The attack on an infant, particularly one who should have been safe in the care of a family member, has shocked the public and spurred discussions on the need for better mental health support and intervention in high-risk situations.
Harris’ actions were described as deliberate and intentional, further deepening the horror of the situation. The notion that a grandparent, who is traditionally expected to provide care and protection, could commit such an act of violence is almost unimaginable for most people. The emotional toll on the family, as well as the broader community, is profound. The baby’s survival against such overwhelming odds is a miracle, but her recovery will undoubtedly be a long and difficult process.
Despite the unimaginable cruelty of Harris’ actions, the case also highlights the extraordinary efforts of law enforcement and emergency responders. The quick thinking and professionalism of the officers on the scene were crucial in preventing further harm and securing the perpetrator. The bodycam footage not only provides a record of the events but also offers insight into the terrifying moments experienced by those who arrived to save the infant.
In the months following the incident, Harris has been held accountable for her actions. By pleading guilty to felonious assault, she avoided a trial, but the charges still reflect the severity of her crime. The nine to 12-year sentence she is currently serving underscores the seriousness with which the justice system is treating this case. Though she will eventually be eligible for parole, the lasting damage caused by her actions will remain with her family and the community for years to come.
The case continues to serve as a tragic reminder of the potential for violence to emerge in even the most unexpected places, especially when individuals are dealing with unresolved emotional or psychological struggles. It also underscores the importance of vigilance and intervention in preventing such violent acts from occurring in the first place.
