Sgt. Gabriel Ceville, an Army soldier stationed at Fort Liberty in North Carolina, had a preliminary hearing this week after being accused of killing his 8-month-old daughter, Misty Delatorre, in 2023. Ceville is facing charges of unpremeditated murder and involuntary manslaughter, as well as domestic violence, although the latter is not connected to Misty. Despite the serious allegations, Ceville has not been detained or discharged, with the Army spokesperson emphasizing that he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Misty’s mother, Alina Delatorre, expressed her frustration with Ceville’s freedom in an interview with ABC’s WTVD, stating that she cannot properly grieve knowing that her daughter’s alleged murderer is still at large. Ceville denied harming the child in conversations with local news outlets and claimed that Misty had become unresponsive after throwing up while in his care at Fort Liberty. When Ceville called 911, he reported that Misty was not breathing, and she was later pronounced dead after being airlifted to a hospital.
An autopsy report revealed that Misty had injuries around her eyes, leading authorities to suspect foul play. The autopsy concluded that the infant died from blunt force trauma to her head and neck. Alina Delatorre described the heartbreaking moment of holding her daughter’s hand in the hospital, and court records indicated that Misty’s parents had been in a custody battle leading up to her death, with Ceville eventually gaining primary custody. Misty was only three days into her stay with Ceville when she was hospitalized.
Following Misty’s death, Alina Delatorre and her mother, Misty Bray, have been working to seek justice for the 8-month-old. Misty Bray expressed devastation and disbelief after the recent hearing, stating that they are struggling to process the situation. The family’s efforts to advocate for Misty have been met with overwhelming emotions and challenges, as they navigate the legal system in hopes of holding Ceville accountable for his daughter’s tragic death.
The case has garnered significant attention due to the disturbing nature of Misty’s injuries and the circumstances surrounding her death. The family’s desire for justice has been amplified by the lack of resolution and the continued freedom of the accused. During this difficult time, support resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline are available to assist those in need. As the legal process unfolds, Alina Delatorre and Misty Bray continue to fight for justice and closure in the wake of Misty’s untimely passing.
