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It has been nearly a year since 13-year-old Na’Ziyah Harris disappeared on Detroit’s east side. Despite multiple searches, she remains missing. Her case gained momentum when authorities arrested Jarvis Butts, linking him to her disappearance. As evidence continues to emerge, investigators are now treating her case as a homicide.
Case Background
On January 9, 2024, the day Na’Ziyah disappeared, Butts was scheduled to turn himself in on a gun-related charge. This meeting was postponed to February. Evidence suggests that Na’Ziyah met with Butts on the day she vanished. Reports indicate they traveled to Ypsilanti and later returned to Detroit, where Butts checked into a motel.
Investigators uncovered troubling text messages and online searches conducted by Butts. These searches included inquiries about sensitive topics, which led investigators to further scrutinize his role in Na’Ziyah’s disappearance.
A Troubling Pattern
Authorities believe Butts had been exploiting Na’Ziyah since 2022. Prosecutors described him as having a history of forming relationships with women to gain access to their children. Evidence in this case reportedly includes inappropriate messages and photos exchanged between Butts and Na’Ziyah.
Investigators also uncovered a history of prior charges against Butts. These include convictions for misconduct in 2005, allegations of inappropriate actions involving two other young individuals, and other reported offenses.
Investigation Timeline
January 9, 2024
Na’Ziyah Harris was last seen getting off her school bus near Cornwall Street and 3 Mile Drive, close to Warren Avenue and Outer Drive in Detroit. This was the same day Butts was supposed to surrender to authorities for a prior legal issue.
January 10, 2024
Na’Ziyah’s grandmother and guardian, Anette Harris, reported her missing to Detroit Public Schools Community District, prompting an initial investigation.
February 14, 2024
After the school district encountered roadblocks, the case was turned over to the Detroit Police Department. Law enforcement officers began canvassing the area and following leads.
February 15, 2024
Detectives interviewed Butts regarding Na’Ziyah’s disappearance. During the interview, Butts claimed he had been preoccupied with legal issues on the day she vanished. He also stated that Na’Ziyah occasionally visited his auto shop.
March 6-7, 2024
Authorities expanded their search to a pond near Gratiot Avenue and Quinn Road in Clinton Township. On March 7, a local woman discovered Na’Ziyah’s school ID. She reported having seen it on the ground for weeks before realizing its significance.
March 12, 2024
Two months after Na’Ziyah’s disappearance, her family expressed hope of finding her. By this point, authorities had conducted more than a dozen searches. Evidence discovered near the Rouge River included pink overalls, a black hoodie with headphones, and a shoe.
August 15, 2024
Detroit police submitted a warrant request related to Na’Ziyah’s case.
September 26, 2024
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that Jarvis Butts was charged in connection to Na’Ziyah’s disappearance. Though no remains had been recovered, the case was reclassified as a homicide.
September 27, 2024
Butts was formally arraigned on multiple charges, including first-degree premeditated murder.
November 1, 2024
Preliminary hearings began, revealing evidence from Na’Ziyah’s case and allegations involving two additional individuals. Witnesses provided testimony about disturbing patterns in Butts’ behavior.
January 6-8, 2025
The preliminary examination continued, with dozens of witnesses testifying about various aspects of the case. More testimony is expected to follow.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities tracked Butts to the Rouge River the day after Na’Ziyah disappeared. They later recovered clothing she was last seen wearing, showing signs of damage that suggested a struggle.
Prosecutors allege Butts has a history of offenses, calling him a habitual offender. His actions have had devastating impacts on multiple families, including Na’Ziyah’s.
Stay informed on Na’Ziyah Harris’s case and other true crime investigations by visiting The Royal News Room on SavageRoyalT.com. Join us in advocating for justice and raising awareness about missing persons.
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