A Michigan couple has been charged with murder following the death of their 7-year-old son, who authorities allege suffered from severe neglect and extreme health complications, including heart disease and morbid obesity.
Jessica O’Brien, 41, and Damien O’Brien, 40, from Flint Township, were arrested on June 24 and charged with second-degree murder, torture, and multiple counts of child abuse in connection with the 2025 death of their son, Casper O’Brien, according to court records.
Prosecutors allege the child was left “immobile” due to a prolonged failure by his parents to provide proper nutrition, medical care, exercise, and a safe living environment, despite having access to health insurance.
Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton described the case as one of “wanton and willful neglect”, saying the child suffered severe medical and physical complications that ultimately contributed to his death.
Authorities said the boy had no regular paediatric care and was referred to a specialist in 2024, but never attended follow-up treatment. Investigators also revealed that on the morning of his death, the parents reportedly contacted a veterinarian regarding their pet.
Emergency services were called on November 4, 2025, after Jessica O’Brien reported that the child was not breathing. He was later pronounced dead at a local hospital after CPR efforts failed.
Police further alleged that the family lived in extremely poor conditions, with reports of accumulated rubbish, unsanitary facilities, and a severely neglected home environment.
Officials also stated that the child, who had autism and did not attend school, slept in the same makeshift bed as his parents and sibling.
The cause of death was listed as dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart condition, with morbid obesity cited as a contributing factor, according to the medical examiner.
Both parents are currently being held at Genesee County Jail without bond and are due back in court on July 2.
Their legal representative has declined to comment in detail, saying it would be premature to respond before reviewing the full evidence, and added that the defence will be presented in court.
