Ben is charged in death of toddler

On April 20, officers with the Ville Platte Police Department responded to 724 N Thompson Street in reference to a female sustaining a gunshot wound. Upon arrival, additional information was obtained, and the three-year-old female victim was located. Due to the circumstances, a responding officer and deputy assumed custody of the child and transported her to Mercy Regional Medical Center for further medical treatment. Due to the extent of the child's medical needs, she was transported to Baton Rouge for further aide, where she succumbed to her injuries.
A warrant was later obtained through the 13th Judicial District Court, on April 20, for 19-year-old Nathan Ben, who is currently being charged on offenses of criminal negligence as well as negligent homicide. He is being held on a $175,000.00 bond.