Photo Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Corrections
Zachary Holly sits on Arkansas’ death row for a crime that shook the small town of Bentonville in 2012. His victim, six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman, had already endured a tragic and abusive childhood before she was brutally murdered. Her case sparked national discussions about child protection and the justice system.
A Tragic Beginning
Jersey Bridgeman was born on November 14, 2006, in Bentonville, Arkansas. Unfortunately, her early years were marked by severe abuse. Her father and stepmother, David and Jana Bridgeman, regularly chained her to a dresser to keep her from wandering at night. They claimed it was to prevent her from accessing medication, but authorities saw it as pure cruelty.
When their abuse came to light, both were arrested and sentenced—David received 18 years, and Jana got 12. With her father in prison, Jersey was placed in the custody of her mother, DesaRae. While she was finally free from the chains, her tragic fate had yet to unfold.
The Night Everything Changed
On the night of November 19, 2012, Jersey’s mother arrived home late from work. Her trusted neighbors, Zachary and Amanda Holly, had been babysitting Jersey and her younger sister. They helped put the girls to bed, and everything seemed normal.
By morning, Jersey was missing. Her mother panicked and ran to the Hollys for help. Soon after, authorities were called, and a frantic search began.
Later that same day, Jersey’s body was discovered in a vacant house nearby. She had been sexually assaulted, strangled with her own pajama bottoms, and left naked. The entire community was horrified.
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The Investigation and Arrest
At first, Zachary Holly appeared cooperative. He assisted in the search and even voluntarily provided a DNA sample. However, forensic evidence quickly linked him to the crime, leading to his arrest.
Prosecutors charged him with capital murder, kidnapping, rape, and residential burglary. He pleaded not guilty, but the evidence against him was overwhelming.
The Trial and Sentence
In May 2015, after reviewing the forensic findings and witness testimonies, a jury found Holly guilty on all charges. His punishment was severe—he was sentenced to death, along with two life sentences and an additional 20 years.
Despite his conviction, Holly has continued to proclaim his innocence. In 2019, he filed a Rule 37 petition, arguing that his defense attorneys failed to represent him adequately. However, the chances of overturning his conviction remain slim.
A Community in Mourning
Jersey Bridgeman’s murder devastated Bentonville. She had already suffered so much at the hands of those who were supposed to protect her, only to be brutally taken from this world.
Her case brought attention to child protection laws, raising concerns about how to prevent similar tragedies. Many questioned whether the system failed Jersey by placing her in a vulnerable situation after her father’s arrest.
Where Things Stand Today
Zachary Holly remains on Arkansas’ death row, awaiting execution. His appeals have so far been unsuccessful, and there is little public sympathy for his case.
Jersey’s memory, however, lives on. Despite everything she endured, those who knew her described her as a happy, cheerful child. The community continues to honor her, hoping that her tragic story serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children.
Final Reflections
The murder of Jersey Bridgeman is a heartbreaking example of how abuse and violence can tragically shape a child’s life. While justice has been served in the form of Zachary Holly’s death sentence, it does little to ease the pain of those who loved Jersey.
Her story continues to impact discussions on child welfare, ensuring that her short life was not forgotten.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
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