Detroit Mother Charged with Murder After 14-Year-Old Special Needs Daughter Found Dead from Blunt Force Trauma

DETROIT, MICHIGAN — A 37-year-old Detroit woman has been charged with murder in the death of her 14-year-old special needs daughter, following what prosecutors described as a brutal assault that caused fatal head injuries.

The suspect, identified as Vangie Renee Averhart, appeared in court for arraignment this week, where prosecutors detailed the disturbing findings of the medical examiner’s report. Averhart is accused of fatally assaulting her daughter on July 7, 2025, and was denied bond.

Prosecutors Describe “Violent and Repetitive” Blows

According to prosecutors, the Wayne County Medical Examiner ruled the child’s death a homicide caused by severe blunt force trauma to the back of her head. The report described injuries comparable to those sustained in a high-speed car crash, including evidence of intracranial hemorrhaging and multiple impacts consistent with repeated blunt force strikes.

Officials said the girl — who had special needs and was non-verbal — lived in a locked room at the family’s home. Multiple Child Protective Services (CPS) reports had reportedly been filed over the years, raising concerns about her safety and living conditions.

Inconsistent Explanations and Attempts to Shift Blame

Investigators said Averhart provided several conflicting stories about how her daughter died. She initially claimed the child choked on a sandwich, later changing her story to say it was a banana.

Averhart also tried to blame her boyfriend for the fatal injuries. However, police said he passed a polygraph test and was confirmed not to be present when the assault occurred.

Prosecutors further alleged that Averhart had made statements in the past suggesting she “didn’t want this child anymore.”

Evidence of Long-Term Neglect and Abuse

According to case records, investigators found the child’s living conditions troubling. The victim, described by family acquaintances as “quiet but sweet,” had been isolated from other family members and largely confined to her room.

CPS had visited the home multiple times over several years after receiving reports of neglect. Officials say these earlier warnings painted a pattern of escalating abuse and neglect, which culminated in the child’s death this summer.

Police were called to the home after a 911 call reporting an unresponsive juvenile. When first responders arrived, the girl was pronounced dead at the scene.

Court Proceedings and Next Steps

During the arraignment, prosecutors urged the judge to deny bond, citing the severity of the allegations and the defendant’s history of inconsistent statements. The court agreed, and Averhart remains held in the Wayne County Jail pending further proceedings.

A preliminary examination has been scheduled for November 26, 2025, where prosecutors are expected to present additional forensic evidence, including medical examiner testimony and crime scene analysis.

Community Reaction

The case has left many Detroit residents heartbroken and outraged. Advocates for special needs children have called for stronger intervention protocols after CPS visits. “This was preventable,” one community member said. “There were warning signs for years.”

Others online have expressed anger over the allegations, saying the child’s death highlights ongoing systemic failures in protecting vulnerable minors.

The Detroit Police Department continues to work with prosecutors as the investigation expands to include prior reports made to child welfare services.

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