Prosecutors Rest in Trial of Ex-day Care Owner

By: AP

Posted: Mon 9:33 PM, Nov 05, 2012

Prosecutors have rested their case against a Houston woman charged with murder after a fire at her home day care killed four children and injured three others.

Investigators say the fire started after Jessica Tata left the children alone at her home and went shopping in February 2011.

Prosecutors wrapped up their case Monday, following nearly two weeks of testimony from about 30 people. Tata's attorneys are expected to begin their defense Tuesday.

Investigators say the blaze began after oil in a pan ignited on a stovetop burner that'd been left on. Tata's attorneys say she didn't intend to harm the children.

Tata is facing four counts of felony murder but is currently on trial for only one child's death. If convicted, the 24-year-old faces up to life in prison.

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Prosecutors Rest in Trial of Ex-day Care Owner

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