Family Charged in Death of 4-Year-Old Boy Found Unconscious

A case of child abuse and neglect has led to the arrest of three family members following the death of a 4-year-old boy on January 19.

Officers responded to The Regency Apartments in the 9800 block of Shallow Creek Loop near Manassas at 7:36 p.m. January 19, to investigate reports of an unconscious child. When emergency responders arrived, they found the young victim, later identified as a 4-year-old boy, unresponsive.

Fire and Rescue personnel administered CPR before transporting the child to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

As detectives delved into the investigation, they discovered that the boy and his 5-year-old sister had endured long-term abuse and neglect at the hands of three family members, police said. These individuals were the primary caretakers of the children.

The investigation revealed the victim had been regularly bound with plastic wrap and packing tape, and he showed signs of severe malnutrition and dehydration at the time of his autopsy. Both children had been routinely deprived of food and water.

On January 29, detectives obtained arrest warrants for the three family members responsible for the children’s care. The arrested individuals have been charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect. They are being held without bond.

The arrested individuals are:

• Rebecca Ann Romero, 53 – Charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect.
• Shanyah Elizabeth Dilda, 22 – Charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect.
• Kemmilyn Anita Wade, 18 – Charged with felony murder and felony child abuse and neglect.

The 5-year-old sister, along with two other children aged 12 and 14 who lived in the apartment, has been placed into the custody of Child Protective Services for their safety and well-being.

Due to the sensitive nature of the case and the age of the deceased, law enforcement has not released the victim’s identity. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the remaining children are safe and adequately cared for.