...By Muyiwa Aderinto for TDPel Media.
Gannon Stauch’s Family Background
Gannon Stauch was born in Loris, South Carolina, and later moved to Colorado with his parents, Albert Stauch and Landen Hoitt.
After their separation, Gannon lived with his father and stepmother, Letecia Stauch. Born prematurely with only a 10% chance of survival, Gannon grew up to be a healthy and bright child, admired by his younger sister Laina.
The Disappearance and Tragic Death
In January 2020, while Gannon’s father was away for training in Oklahoma, Gannon went missing. His stepmother reported that he had left for a friend’s house, but his body was later discovered under a Florida overpass.
Gannon’s parents, who shared custody of their children, were devastated by his tragic death, which shocked their community and social media followers.
The Investigation and Arrest
Following Gannon’s disappearance on January 27, 2020, a statewide search was conducted, involving the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the FBI Child Abduction Rapid Deployment, and the Colorado Springs Police Department.
In March 2020, his remains were found inside a suitcase beneath a bridge in northwestern Florida. Letecia Stauch, Gannon’s stepmother, was arrested in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and later charged with his murder.
The Accused and the Ongoing Trial
Letecia Stauch, who was caught on a neighbor’s surveillance camera leaving with Gannon and returning alone hours later, faces multiple charges, including child abuse resulting in death, first-degree murder, and tampering with a deceased human being.
She has pleaded not guilty to all charges, claiming insanity in the murder of Gannon Stauch. The trial is expected to last at least six weeks.
Gannon Stauch’s parents have endured immense pain throughout this process, and they hope to find closure in the resolution of the case.
Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Gannon will be remembered as a beloved child who brought joy and love to those around him.
