HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — A 29-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the death of a three-year-old child following an investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Grace Wingate was arrested after detectives obtained a warrant on July 16, 2026. She faces charges of Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Aggravated Child Abuse, Aggravated Child Abuse, and Child Neglect (With Great Bodily Harm).
The investigation began on April 25, 2026, when the female child died after being taken to Brandon Regional Hospital with several inflicted injuries.
Detectives determined the injuries occurred while the child was in Wingate’s care.
The Medical Examiner’s Office officially ruled the child’s death a homicide.
“This is a heartbreaking and disturbing case. A child lost her life at the hands of the person entrusted to protect her,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We will not tolerate violence against anyone in our community, especially innocent children, and we will work relentlessly with the State Attorney’s Office to ensure she faces the maximum consequences the law allows.”
Sheriff’s officials stated that the investigation remains active.
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