A Michigan couple has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of their seven-year-old son, who weighed 255 pounds (116 kg) at the time of his death. The case has drawn attention to allegations of severe neglect and failure to provide medical care.
Incident and Charges
The investigation began on 4 November 2025, when a 911 call reported a young boy in medical distress at a home in Flint township, Michigan. The child, identified as Casper O'Brien, died after being taken to a hospital. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton charged the parents, Damien O'Brien, 40, and Jessica O'Brien, 41, with second-degree murder.
According to the complaint, the O'Briens caused serious physical harm to their son, who was reportedly immobile. Authorities allege the couple failed to take Casper to a doctor and did not provide a safe living environment. Police found the boy in a makeshift bed shared by four family members, as reported by MLive.
Medical and Autopsy Details
At the time of his death, Casper measured 4 feet 2.5 inches (1.3 meters) tall and weighed 255 pounds, far exceeding US averages and pediatric recommendations. A forensic autopsy report revealed that Casper had not seen a primary care physician since February 2024, when he was referred to a pediatric endocrinologist. His parents never brought him to that appointment.
Deputy Medical Examiner John A. Bechinski noted in the report that Casper's diet consisted mainly of potato chips and fries due to texture issues. Prosecutor Leyton told WJRT that the family had resources, including health insurance through Damien O'Brien's stable job, but failed to provide proper care.
Additional Charges and Condition of Sibling
The couple also faces a charge of second-degree child abuse involving a five-year-old girl in the home. According to NBC News, the girl was medically considered morbidly obese. Authorities found her outside the home naked, dirty, and with knots in her hair. If convicted, the O'Briens could face life in prison.
