CANNON BEACH, Ore., Aug. 4 (UPI) -- A woman has been arrested in Oregon in connection with the death of her 2-year-old daughter in a beach resort.
Police found 40-year-old Goldendale, Wash. resident Jessica Smith in her car off the highway, where they believe she has been hiding since the girl was discovered.
On Friday morning, housekeepers at the Surfsand Resort in Cannon Beach discovered 13-year-old Alana Smith critically wounded with multiple cuts with the dead body of 2-year-old Isabella Smith.
Isabella's death was ruled a homicide, although the cause of death is undetermined pending a toxicology report. Alana was airlifted to an area hospital where she was stabilized and released into protective custody for recovery.
The FBI joined forces with the Cannon Beach Police Department, Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Astoria Police Department and Oregon State Police to hunt for Smith, arresting her Sunday after the Coast Guard spotted her on a logging road 15 miles from Cannon Beach.
"We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of sympathy and support from Cannon Beach and the surrounding communities," Greg Smith, Jessica's estranged husband said in a statement on behalf of the family.
"We would also like to thank all the law enforcement agencies for their tireless efforts. Special thanks is given to the caregivers and other support individuals for their empathy and skilled care of our whole family."
Smith is charged with aggravated murder and attempted aggravated murder. If convicted Smith could face the death penalty.
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