A Michigan couple have been charged with second-degree murder following the death of their seven-year-old son, who weighed more than 17 stone (113kg) at the time of his death. Damien and Jessica O'Brien allegedly caused serious physical harm to their son, Casper, who was reportedly immobile and living in unsafe conditions, according to a complaint filed by the Genesee County prosecutor's office.
Emergency Response and Death
Emergency services were alerted on November 4, 2025, after a 911 call reported that a young boy was not breathing at a home in Flint Township, Michigan. Casper was taken to hospital but tragically died. The couple were later charged with second-degree murder and multiple child abuse charges. They could face life in prison if convicted.
Diet and Medical Neglect
Deputy Medical Examiner John A. Bechinski wrote in a forensic autopsy report that Casper's diet consisted primarily of potato chips and fries due to texture issues. At the time of his death, Casper stood 4ft 2.5in tall and weighed 255lbs. Police found the boy in a makeshift bed shared by four family members.
Prosecutor David Leyton described the home conditions as deplorable, involving hoarding. Authorities alleged that the O'Briens failed to take Casper to a doctor despite Mr. O'Brien having health insurance for the entire family through his stable job. The autopsy report revealed that Casper was last seen by his primary care physician in February 2024, who referred him to a pediatric endocrinologist, but his parents never brought him to that appointment.
Additional Charges
Court records show the couple also face a charge of second-degree child abuse involving a five-year-old girl, as reported by NBC News. The case highlights severe neglect and medical inaction leading to the child's death.
