UPDATE: A man convicted in the killing of a 13-year-old Detroit girl has been found dead in prison just weeks after being sentenced, leaving key questions in the case unanswered.
Jarvis Butts, 43, was discovered unresponsive on March 26 at the Charles Egeler Reception and Guidance Center in Jackson, Michigan, according to the Michigan Department of Corrections. Staff attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. His death is being investigated as a suspected suicide.
Butts had recently been sentenced on March 12 to 35 to 60 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the death of 13-year-old Na’Ziyah Harris, along with multiple sexual assault charges involving other victims.
Victim’s body still missing
Na’Ziyah Harris disappeared in January 2024 after getting off a school bus on Detroit’s east side. Her body has never been recovered.
As part of a plea agreement, prosecutors had required Butts to provide information about the location of her remains. However, authorities say he died without publicly revealing where the girl’s body is, prolonging the anguish for her family.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy previously emphasized that locating the victim’s body was a critical part of the case, intended to bring closure to loved ones.
Disturbing details revealed
Investigators said Butts had been in contact with Harris before her disappearance and had allegedly groomed her over a period of time. Authorities also uncovered troubling online searches related to abortion methods and poisoning in the days leading up to her death.
Prosecutors further alleged that Harris was pregnant at the time she went missing, and that Butts was the father.
Ongoing investigation
Despite Butts’ death, law enforcement officials say the investigation into Harris’ disappearance is not over. Detroit police have stated they will continue efforts to locate her remains and follow any new leads.
Family members and community advocates say the case remains a painful reminder of both the violence committed against the young victim and the unresolved search for answers.
Butts’ death comes less than two weeks after his sentencing, bringing a sudden end to the legal proceedings but leaving critical questions unanswered for those seeking closure.
