The frantic search for missing teenager Lala Clark has ended in unspeakable horror. Investigators located the vulnerable, deaf child face down behind a Wilkes-Barre garage, bearing severe trauma and tied with a rope.
While the property belonged to a registered s3x offender, a shocking twist revealed her biological aunt allegedly kidnapped and executed her. Forensic teams analyzing surveillance footage just confirmed that…
The tragic case of La’Niyah “Lala” Clark, a 14/15-year-old deaf teenager from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has concluded with the arrest and charging of her biological aunt, Bobbiejo Etzel.
The Horrific Discovery
On February 21, 2026, La’Niyah’s body was found nude and showing signs of severe trauma in a snow-covered area behind a commercial garage on Thayer Street. She had a rope-like item around her wrist, cuts, and bruising. The location was leased by her adoptive father.
La’Niyah had been reported missing on January 17, 2026, after running away from her adoptive home.
The Aunt’s Role
Bobbiejo Etzel, 37, was arrested and charged with:
- Criminal homicide
- Kidnapping
- Abuse of a corpse
According to prosecutors, Etzel:
- Encouraged La’Niyah to run away despite a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order prohibiting contact.
- Hid the teen in an Extended Stay hotel and later an apartment.
- Allegedly suffocated her with a plastic bag on February 11 out of fear of going to jail for violating the PFA.
- Used a laundry cart to dispose of the body.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured Etzel moving a large plastic tote consistent with the disposal.
Timeline Highlights
- Jan 17: La’Niyah reported missing.
- Jan 20: Police searched Etzel’s hotel room (La’Niyah reportedly hid behind a dresser).
- Feb 11: Alleged murder by suffocation.
- Feb 21: Body discovered.
- April 21: Etzel charged with homicide and related offenses.
Etzel waived her preliminary hearing, and charges were upgraded.
Impact and Reactions
La’Niyah’s adoptive family and biological mother have expressed profound grief and outrage. The case has highlighted issues around protection orders, family conflicts, and vulnerabilities faced by deaf and at-risk youth.
The community has rallied around “Justice for Lala,” demanding accountability and better safeguards.
Disclaimer: This is a true crime discussion based on court records and official statements. The case involves the murder of a minor and is highly disturbing. We are not law enforcement.