New Jersey woman found dead at home after being attacked with a broom by another woman, according to police.
A tragic incident in Atlantic City has resulted in the arrest of a 22-year-old woman accused of fatally attacking another woman using a broom. Ceani Barnes is facing serious charges, including first-degree aggravated manslaughter, in connection with the death of 34-year-old Christina Burdette, as confirmed by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities were alerted to the situation during a welfare check at a residence on Sheridan Avenue on Saturday morning. Upon arrival, officers discovered Burdette “unresponsive” and she was shortly pronounced dead at approximately 10 a.m. The Southern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, ultimately ruling it a homicide. The cause of death was determined to be “complications of multiple blunt force trauma injuries with chronic abuse.”
According to a probable cause affidavit, Barnes allegedly attacked Burdette with the broom, inflicting severe injuries to her head, ears, and face. The affidavit also noted indications that someone had attempted to treat Burdette’s wounds prior to the arrival of the authorities.
Family members of the deceased described Burdette’s condition to local media, stating she bore visible bruises and that her head was wrapped in gauze when they last saw her. Witnesses present at the home when police arrived provided statements, revealing that Burdette had come to the residence around 2 a.m. with significant injuries and a bandage on her head, raising further concerns about the circumstances leading up to her death.
Further investigation revealed inconsistencies in the information provided to investigators, prompting a deeper inquiry into Burdette’s injuries. Reports indicate that Barnes ultimately confessed to smothering and killing Burdette. Additionally, a witness claimed that Barnes had assaulted Burdette on multiple occasions in the hours leading up to the emergency call.
The nature of the relationship between Barnes and Burdette remains unclear, and the case continues to unfold as officials examine the details surrounding this violent incident. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office is expected to pursue the case vigorously, ensuring that justice is served for Burdette and her family.