Shaniya Davis body found captured on video (video footage)

 
Yesterday, the body of Shaniya Davis was found on Walker Avenue, off of Highway 87 in Sanford, North Carolina. The moment she was discovered was caught on videotape as searchers had been looking in the specific area, acting upon a tip. The emotional search for Shaniya Davis came to an abrupt end and the hopes that Shaniya Davis would be found alive ceased in the finality of that moment.

(Shaniya Davis photos and candlelight vigil: slideshow)

Last night, a candlelight vigil was held in Sanford, North Carolina, where Shaniya Davis’ body was found. Another candlelight vigil was held in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Shaniya’s father Bradley Lockhart was in attendance. Shaniya’s father was overcome with grief and was supported by friends who helped him stand. Just hours before the video was shot, and Shaniya’s body was found, Bradley Lockhart had appeared on CBS’ Early Show pleading and begging for his daughter’s return.

Shaniya Davis’ mother has been charged with child abuse including prostitution and it has been alleged that she sold Shaniya to a 29-year-old man, Mario McNeill for the purpose of sexual servitude. Shaniya, at the tender age of five-years-old was seen in surveillance videos at the Comfort Suites hotel in Sanford, North Caroling being carried by Mario McNeill. The footage was taped shortly before Shaniya Davis’ mother, Antoinette Davis, reported her daughter missing. Mario McNeill has been charged with first-degree kidnapping in the case.

Police have not released Shaniya Davis’ cause of death but an autopsy is being performed. The news of Shaniya’s death has ripped through the country as many hoped and prayed that the little girl seen on the video surveillance tape would be found alive.

It is expected that more charges will be filed against Shaniya Davis’ mother and Mario McNeill soon.
 

Shaniya Davis body found captured on video (video footage)