‘Abused’ Boy, 9, Locked Away in Bedroom’ with Pneumonia Died When Lung Collapsed From Buildup of Pus: DA

Detroit: 9-year-old Dies from Neglect, Legal Guardians Charged with Murder

In a tragic turn of events, a 9-year-old boy in Detroit lost his life due to neglect from his legal guardians, leading to murder charges being filed against them. Sherman Devaughn Jones, aged 46, and Sampaguita L. Jones, aged 41, are now facing an extensive list of charges, including felony murder, torture, and involuntary manslaughter, according to the Wayne County District Attorney’s Office.

The young boy, Owen, passed away in September 2024 as a result of pneumonia complications that were allegedly ignored by his guardians for weeks. It was revealed in court that Owen’s right lung collapsed due to pus buildup in his chest cavity, a detail highlighted by the medical examiner during the proceedings.

Erin Wilmoth, a lead attorney with the DA’s office, outlined the disturbing case, stating that Owen had been subjected to prolonged suffering, with evidence of physical trauma all over his body. The autopsy report revealed scars, bruises, fractures, and signs of malnourishment, painting a harrowing picture of the neglect and abuse the child endured.

Alarming details emerged about Owen’s isolated existence, hidden away in his room and deprived of medical attention and basic care. His deteriorating health condition, worsened by being homeschooled and shielded from routine health checks, left him vulnerable and ultimately without the necessary support when he fell ill with pneumonia.

The neglectful actions of the Joneses were further emphasized, as they allegedly ignored Owen’s worsening symptoms and failed to seek medical assistance promptly. Despite concerns raised by a relative to Child Protective Services in mid-2023, the situation escalated to a devastating outcome for the young boy.

The gravity of the case was underscored by Wilmoth’s assertions in court, detailing the extent of Owen’s injuries and the systemic failure that led to his untimely death. The couple’s pretrial detention and upcoming court appearance reflect the serious nature of the charges they are now facing in connection to Owen’s tragic passing.

Efforts to shed light on child abuse and provide avenues for intervention were reiterated, urging individuals to report any suspicions or concerns to relevant authorities for prompt action. The heartbreaking story of Owen serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of vigilance and advocacy to protect vulnerable children from harm.

As the legal proceedings continue and more details unfold, the case of Owen’s untimely demise stands as a stark reminder of the duty to safeguard children and ensure their well-being is prioritized above all else. The quest for justice for Owen and accountability for those responsible remains a focal point in this heartbreaking saga of neglect and tragedy.