North Carolina Mother Charged With Murder After 13-Year-Old Daughter Dies of Severe Malnutrition

A North Carolina woman has been charged with first-degree murder after her 13-year-old daughter died following alleged prolonged neglect and severe malnutrition. An autopsy found that the girl, identified as ZT, died from acute necrotising pneumonia and inanition, a condition involving severe malnutrition and physical wasting. Authorities said she weighed about 35 pounds when her body was found at her mother’s home in High Point in October 2025. Police had previously received welfare concerns from relatives and neighbours. The girl’s twin brother was also found in the home and was reported to have lacked adequate food, clothing and sanitary living conditions. He survived but was said to have suffered serious psychological harm. The mother was initially charged with child abuse and concealing a death. She now faces a murder charge and could receive a life sentence if convicted.

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