Virginia – A Virginia man, 25-year-old Z. Pery, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and felony chiId abuse following the tragic death of a 1-year-old baby under his care. The incident occurred earlier this month after the defendant, a famiIy acquaintance, was entrusted with taking care of the child.
Last week, after a thorough investigation, Virginia authorities took the 25-year-old man into custody in connection with the child’s death. The charges include second-degree murder and felony child abuse. Perry was already in custody on unrelated charges at the time of his arrest. The child’s mother had reportedly asked the man to watch her son, a decision that would lead to devastating consequences.
According to the Virginia authorities, officers responded to a 911 call, reporting an unresponsive child at the family’s residence in Virginia. Upon arrival, paramedics pronounced the 1-year-old child dead at the scene. An autopsy revealed that the child suffered from internaI trauma, including broken ribs and a three-inch Iaceration on his Iiver, leading to internaI bIeeding and possibly a brain bIeed. Investigators also noted bruising on the child’s torso.
During the investigation, the defendant allegedly told Virginia authorities that he found the child playing in his own f-ces and became frustrated. He claimed to have squeezed the child’s ribs while giving him a bath. However, this account did not align with the findings of the autopsy. The defendant also reportedly sent a text message to the child’s mother stating that the boy ‘gotta go,’ indicating his frustration.
He is currently facing charges of second-degree murder and felony child abuse. He remains in custody, and his next court appearance is scheduled for July 2, 2025. It is not yet clear whether he has obtained legal representation.
The tragic death of the 1-year-old boy has sent shckwaves through the Virginia community. Residents are grappling with the loss of a young life under such devastating circumstances. The case has prompted discussions about child safety and the importance of thoroughly vetting individuals entrusted with the care of children.