CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA — A North Carolina caregiver has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Aaliyah Fortner, a 23-year-old nonverbal woman with severe autism. Marlo Wallace, 59, ran a home for people with special needs where Fortner lived under her care. Authorities allege Fortner was beaten and starved before her death, weighing just 84 pounds.
Crash With Semi-Truck Led Investigators to Fortner’s Body
The investigation began after Wallace was involved in a crash with a semi-truck. At the hospital, she allegedly told investigators they would find a dead body at her home. Her statement led police straight to the home.
Officers went to the residence and found Fortner dead. The home was located in the Charlotte area. According to the post, her body had been left in the house for days without anyone calling for help. The discovery stunned investigators.
Fortner Allegedly Beaten With Broomstick and Shocked With Taser
Investigators allege Fortner was physically abused in the months before her death. Reports say she was beaten with a broomstick and shocked with a Taser. The abuse allegedly went on for months.
Medical examiner records documented blunt-force injuries across her body. The post also claims some of the abuse was caught on video that the operator allegedly tried to delete. Investigators have not publicly confirmed that claim.
Nonverbal Woman Lost More Than 60 Pounds in Six Months
Fortner weighed just 84 pounds when she died, according to medical examiner records. She had lost more than 60 pounds over the previous six months. Such severe weight loss points to long-term neglect.
Because she was nonverbal, Fortner could not tell anyone what was happening to her. She depended on others for her most basic needs. Advocates say people with severe disabilities rely completely on caregivers to keep them safe.
Case Raises Questions About Oversight of Special Needs Group Homes
Wallace has been charged with first-degree murder. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues. Court records do not show whether she has entered a plea, and she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The case has sparked anger and calls for closer monitoring of homes that care for vulnerable adults. Many are asking how the abuse went unnoticed for so long. Advocates say regular checks could help prevent similar tragedies. Fortner’s family has been left devastated by her loss.
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