MANASSAS, Va. — Three family members have been arrested and charged with murder after a 4-year-old boy was found unconscious and later died at a hospital, authorities said Tuesday.
Police responded to The Regency Apartments in the 9800 block of Shallow Creek Loop on Jan. 19 at 7:36 p.m. after emergency services were contacted about an unconscious child. Fire and rescue personnel attempted CPR before transporting the boy to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators determined the child and his 5-year-old sister had been subjected to prolonged abuse and neglect. The boy was regularly bound in plastic wrap and packing tape and was found severely malnourished and dehydrated, according to an autopsy. The children were also routinely deprived of food and water.
On Tuesday, police arrested three family members: Rebecca Ann Romero, 53; Shanyah Elizabeth Dilda, 22; and Kemmilyn Anita Wade, 18. Romero and Dilda were charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect. Wade was charged with felony murder and felony child abuse and neglect. All three are being held without bond.
The 5-year-old sibling, along with two older children, ages 12 and 14, have been placed in the custody of Child Protective Services.