TAVARES, Fla. – A 10-year-old boy who was discovered to be tortured and abused at a home in Tavares last month has succumbed to his injuries, according to the police department.
Investigators said the boy had been taken to the hospital after experiencing cardiac arrest, though medical staff found he had suffered bruises, burn marks and other injuries in “various stages of healing.”
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Police added that upon learning law enforcement officers were on their way to the hospital, the boy’s mother and her boyfriend — identified as Kimberley Mills, 37 and Andre Walker, 36, respectively — fled the scene.
According to detectives, Mills later returned with the boy’s younger brother, who told investigators about how “he and his older brother suffered unspeakable torment.”
Per investigators, a search of the home yielded a ladder, a 10-pound weight, and duct tape — items used to restrain the 10-year-old with his hands above his head while the weight was intentionally dropped onto his exposed torso.
Additionally, a copper wire was found which detectives determined was used to inflict further harm on the boys, according to police.
Earlier this week, police announced that the boy was still in critical condition, though on Friday night, he ultimately passed away.
“With profound sorrow, the Tavares Police Department announces the tragic passing of a 10-year-old boy, a victim of unimaginable abuse and neglect at the hands of those who were meant to care for him,” a release from the police department reads. “This innocent child’s life was marked by unspeakable suffering, and his loss has deeply shaken our community and everyone involved in this case.”
As of Friday, Mills faces charges of tampering with evidence, two counts of aggravated child abuse, two counts of child neglect, and two counts of accessory to aggravated child abuse.
Meanwhile, Walker faces charges of tampering with evidence, two counts of aggravated child abuse, and two counts of accessory to aggravated child abuse. Both Mills and Walker are held without bond.
However, Tavares police said they’re working with the State Attorney’s Office to enhance the pair’s charges.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to securing justice for this child and ensuring accountability for the heinous acts committed,” the release continues.
The agency is working with the Tavares Police Charity to help the boys’ family. Anyone who would like to provide donations can drop them off at the police department or click here to reach the Tavares Police Charities Fund.