LAS VEGAS — A horrific act of violence has left a Las Vegas family shattered after their 3-year-old daughter, Journei Ross, was allegedly stabbed to death by her own babysitter. The suspect, 41-year-old Marketta Phillips Lucresha, now faces murder charges in what police describe as an “unimaginable crime.”
The tragedy unfolded early Tuesday morning when Journei Ross father, Jeremy Ross, returned home from work to discover his daughter gravely injured. According to police reports, Ross immediately called 911 and performed emergency first aid in a desperate attempt to save his little girl. Despite these efforts and rapid transport to a nearby hospital, Journei was pronounced dead upon arrival with multiple stab wounds.
Metro police launched an intensive manhunt, locating and arresting Phillips Lucresha within hours of the attack. Court records show the suspect had been working as the family’s babysitter for approximately three months. Neighbors described hearing screams from the home just before the father’s arrival, though no one reported the disturbance to authorities.
“This beautiful little girl should be alive today,” said Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson during a press conference. “We will pursue justice for Journei with every resource available.” The coroner’s office confirmed the toddler suffered multiple traumatic injuries consistent with a violent assault.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Las Vegas community, with child welfare advocates calling for stricter babysitter screening processes. Current Nevada law doesn’t require background checks for private babysitters, a loophole that may face renewed scrutiny following this tragedy. A growing memorial of stuffed animals and flowers now marks the family’s front yard.
As detectives continue building their case, examining potential motives and the suspect’s mental state, Journei’s family has requested privacy. Phillips Lucresha remains held without bail at Clark County Detention Center, with her first court appearance scheduled for Friday morning. Those wishing to support the Ross family can contribute to an established memorial fund through local Chase Bank branches.
