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Published 14:11 01 Jul 2026 GMT
A couple has been charged with murder after prosecutors alleged their seven-year-old son died following years of severe neglect, with authorities describing the conditions inside the family home as among the worst they had encountered.
Damien and Jessica O'Brien from Michigan are facing charges including second-degree murder, torture and multiple counts of second-degree child abuse following the death of their son, Casper O'Brien, in November 2025.
According to Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton, Flint Township police responded to the family's home after receiving reports of a child suffering cardiac arrest.
Casper, who was seven years old, weighed 255 pounds at the time of his death.
Investigators who entered the home described shocking living conditions.
Police said the property was filled with extreme hoarding, with the floor hidden beneath piles of clutter.
Court documents allege there was no working toilet, while large amounts of human waste were found throughout the house.
Authorities said Casper appeared dirty when emergency crews arrived and was wearing a heavily soiled diaper as paramedics attempted lifesaving treatment before transporting him to hospital.
Doctors treating the child reportedly suspected abuse and neglect had played a role in his condition.
Police also said Casper had 'some of the worst open sores and rashes they've ever seen.'
An autopsy later determined he died from dilated cardiomyopathy, with extreme morbid obesity listed as a contributing factor.
Prosecutors allege Casper had become immobile because of prolonged neglect.
Court documents claim his parents failed to provide proper nutrition, opportunities for exercise, appropriate medical care or a safe and hygienic home despite having health insurance.
The charges also relate to the couple's five-year-old daughter, who police reportedly found naked when officers arrived at the home.
Investigators said the child weighed around 130 pounds and was also considered morbidly obese.
They further alleged she had poor hygiene, tangled hair and was suffering from a persistent cough.
According to charging documents, the parents are accused of failing to care for their daughter, who 'was morbidly overweight, was dirty, knots in her hair, naked outside when law enforcement arrived.'
Following the medical examiner's report, prosecutors formally brought charges against both parents.
In a statement, Prosecutor Leyton described the case as 'a sad and horrific case involving the wanton and willful neglect by two parents for the care, welfare and medical needs of their son.'
He added: "Their neglect led to their child suffering severe bed sores, various rashes and other physical health disorders including extreme morbid obesity that ultimately led to his early death."
The O'Briens were arraigned after being charged.
It is not currently known whether either parent has legal representation.
A probable cause hearing has been scheduled in the 67th District Court.
