LIVE OAK, FL – A 33-year-old mother and her boyfriend have been arrested in connection with the death of her 2-year-old son. The child reportedly suffered from apparent head injuries and was found to be covered in bruises and cigarette burns.
Christian Parnell and Curtis David Willey are charged with one count each of aggravated manslaughter of a child. If convicted, they face up to 30 years in state prison.
Suwannee County deputies responded to a medical emergency about 3 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 13. Parnell reported that her son was unresponsive while CPR was being performed. First responders transported the boy to a local hospital, but he was pronounced dead at 4:10 p.m.
Investigators noted swelling to the boy’s head and multiple bruises and scars on his body. In an interview, Parnell claimed her son received injuries from a fall at home 10 days prior, stating he was playing with Willey’s son.
Parnell reported that the boy began to show symptoms of illness a week after the alleged fall. According to her, Willey called her at work on Oct. 13, stating they needed to take the child to the hospital. Before they could leave, the toddler began to vomit and lost consciousness.
Willey stated he was in another room when the incident occurred. He claimed the boy seemed to be in decent health until Oct. 13, when the child displayed concerning symptoms. However, the severity and number of injuries were inconsistent with their explanations.
Authorities stated that both defendants ignored the medical needs of the child, resulting in his death. They are being held without bond at the Suwannee County Jail, with additional charges pending.