A Florida couple has been arrested and charged with Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child after a two-year-old boy was found unresponsive at their residence on Monday. Authorities reported that the child exhibited injuries consistent with ongoing physical abuse and prolonged neglect.
Christian Parnell, 33, the child’s mother, and her boyfriend, Curtis David Willey, 33, both of Live Oak, were taken into custody following an extensive investigation by the Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office.
The tragic incident was uncovered at approximately 3:06 p.m. on Monday, when the Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a 911 call reporting an unresponsive two-year-old at a home in the 22900 block of 128th Path. The caller indicated that CPR was in progress.
Deputies and Suwannee County Fire Rescue personnel immediately responded to the scene. The child was rushed to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
During the initial response and subsequent investigation, authorities noted “significant bruising, swelling, and other trauma” on the child’s body. These injuries were deemed inconsistent with the explanations provided by the caregivers and led investigators to suspect physical abuse and neglect.
Following comprehensive interviews and evidence collection, Parnell and Willey were arrested. Both are being held at the Suwannee County Jail on charges of Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child.
The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office stated that additional charges are pending the results of an autopsy and further forensic examinations.
The investigation is active and ongoing, and authorities are currently withholding further details to preserve the integrity of the case. The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information related to the case to contact Investigator Bradley Griffin at (386) 362-2222. Callers may remain anonymous.
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