Three family members charged with murder in death of 4-year-old manassas boy
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Three family members charged with murder in death of 4-year-old Manassas boy

January 30, 2025
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PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Three family members have been charged with murder after a 4-year-old boy was found unconscious in a Manassas apartment and later died, police said.

Officers responded to The Regency Apartments in the 9800 block of Shallow Creek Loop on Jan. 19 around 7:30 p.m. and found the child unresponsive. Medics attempted CPR before transporting him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators determined that the boy and his 5-year-old sister had suffered prolonged abuse, including being bound with plastic wrap and packing tape and deprived of food and water. An autopsy confirmed the boy was severely malnourished and dehydrated.

Authorities arrested three relatives: Rebecca Ann Romero, 53, Shanyah Elizabeth Dilda, 29, and Kemmilyn Anita Wade, 18. All face multiple charges, including aggravated murder, felony murder, and child abuse.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News