Miami Woman Savagely Beaten Remains Comatose

Details

Category: Crime

Published on Monday, 22 February 2016 20:04

Written by Janet Walker

Danielle Jones, 23, a Miami, Florida caterer, is clinging to life after she was savagely beaten, bludgeoned, strangled, slashed and left for dead on Valentine's Day, which is also her birthday, by her roommate of one week that she found on Craigslist.

Miami Dade police arrested Byron Mitchell, 35, and charged him with attempted murder. He entered a not guilty plea. When questioned by police, he admitted punching the petite brunette telling police it was "self-defense after she came after him with a knife."

Police have yet to release information on the extent of injuries suffered by the African American former personal trainer who felt compelled to beat Jones nearly to death, smashing her head against the floor which has resulted in brain trauma. He is being held without bail at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

"I'm, still in shock, I can't comprehend that someone can do this to someone, mutilate them in such a way and try to kill them," said Jones' mother, Aimmee Nikolov speaking to global media.

Jones who is Caucasian, was reportedly at the time of the attack leaving the apartment for her birthday celebration, wanted to alleviate some of the financial burden of carrying the full costs of her own apartment. So she did what many do, she advertised on Craigslist.

The online catchall classified that advertises everything from romantic encounters to free furniture, automobiles and apartments has increasing become a trolling site for dangerous and deadly encounters.

Mitchell, who bills himself as a physical trainer and former U.S. Military serviceman, beat the diminutive Jones into a coma, strangled her to where she needs ventilator support to help her breathe. She has various skull fractures and facial contusions. Her forehead and sides of her face were intentionally cut and needed 300 stitches.

Jones reportedly opened her eyes for the first time since she was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital Ryder Trauma Center on Sunday, February 14. Photos have been released showing intense and acute swelling and bruising. 

A GoFundME page was set up to assist with Medical care and costs. With the medical prognosis, presently described as touch and go doctors are attempting to bring Jones out of the coma.

The family is hoping to raise 50,000 to cover medical costs and rehabilitation. Anyone wishing to donate can follow this link: https://www.gofundme.com/justicefordani

Prayers for a complete recovery, mental and physical, are welcome also.

Images Dani (R), Mitchell (C), Dani (L) 9 days post attack. Other more graphic images are posted on the GoFUndMe Page.