Elizabelle Frenel, a 6-year-old girl from Haines City, FL, tragically lost her life on April 12, 2019, following a horrific shooting incident at the Citrus Ridge Apartments. Elizabelle, who was of African-American descent, was shot multiple times, including in the temple, face, and arm. The incident occurred on the evening of April 12, and she succumbed to her injuries the following night at an Orlando hospital.
The suspect in this tragic event was identified as 38-year-old Ernst
Cherizard, who was in a relationship with Elizabelle's mother, Eli Junia Normil. Cherizard, who is also African-American, allegedly shot Elizabelle, her mother, and her aunt, Nicole Guillume, during a violent altercation. Normil and Guillume were pronounced dead at the scene, while Elizabelle fought for her life for several hours before passing away.
Following the shooting, Cherizard fled the scene, prompting a manhunt. He was later apprehended and charged with three counts of first-degree murder. The police investigation revealed that Cherizard and Normil had a tumultuous relationship, and the shooting was the culmination of a domestic dispute. Cherizard's actions were widely condemned, with Haines City Police Chief James Elensky describing him as "not much of a man" for shooting a child and two women.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Cherizard was denied bond and faced multiple court appearances. The case drew significant media attention, highlighting issues of domestic violence and gun control. A GoFundMe page was established to help cover the funeral expenses for the victims, and the community rallied to support the grieving family.
Elizabelle Frenel's death was a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the urgent need for measures to protect vulnerable individuals from such senseless acts of violence.
