The attack occurred at the Cecil Webb Wildlife Management Area, where the girl was left bleeding and unconscious after the assault.

The victim, described as brave by her paternal grandmother, managed to fend off her mother and played dead to escape further harm.

Charlotte County Sheriff's Office described the scene, stating the victim appeared to have been 'discarded' after the attack.

Sheriff Bill Prummell expressed disbelief at the brutality of the attack, emphasizing the lasting mental trauma the victim may endure.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and details about the attack.

Girard has been booked into Lee County jail following her arrest, although formal charges have not yet been filed.

Criminal defense attorney Douglas Molloy noted that formal charges typically come two to three weeks after an arrest, allowing time for evaluation by the state attorney's office.

Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack and why the girl was concealed under brush after being assaulted.

Girard reportedly admitted to the attack, facing charges of aggravated battery and aggravated child abuse.

Gwendolyn Girard, a 35-year-old woman from North Fort Myers, has been arrested for allegedly stabbing her 12-year-old daughter in the face and neck, then attempting to conceal her underbrush in a wildlife area.

She was discovered alone, barely able to speak, and required immediate medical attention, which highlighted the severity of her injuries.

Witnesses alerted authorities upon discovering the girl, leading to a swift response from law enforcement.