News Summary
Zai-Twond Perry, a 25-year-old man, faces charges of second-degree murder and felony child neglect following the death of a 1-year-old boy under his care. The boy was found unresponsive, with an autopsy revealing multiple broken ribs and signs of shaken baby syndrome. The ongoing legal proceedings have drawn community concern and highlight the need for vigilance in childcare settings.
Newport News – A 25-year-old man, Zai-Twond Perry, is facing serious charges including second-degree murder and felony child neglect in connection with the death of a 1-year-old boy, who died while under his care. This tragic incident took place on April 5 when police responded to Cedar Avenue after receiving reports of an unresponsive child. Upon arrival, authorities found the infant deceased at the scene.
The case against Perry returned to court on Wednesday, but he was not physically present due to complications arising from a conflict of interest within his legal representation. The proceedings are ongoing as the prosecution files motions related to the investigation and the review of evidence.
The child’s mother described Perry as a trustworthy individual, asserting that she had previously entrusted him with the care of her children without any suspicion of his ability to harm them. However, court documents later revealed troubling details regarding the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
Perry reportedly admitted to babysitting the toddler on the day of the incident. His statement indicated that he found the child engaging in unsanitary behavior, prompting him to attempt to clean the boy. During this bathing process, Perry allegedly became frustrated and squeezed the child’s ribs, a claim that raises serious concerns about his actions.
In the days following the incident, Perry communicated with the child’s mother via text, allegedly sending a message stating that “the boy has gotta go.” These words have added distress to an already tragic situation and have been included in the ongoing investigation.
The autopsy report released after the child’s death revealed alarming findings. Medical examiners noted that the child suffered from multiple broken ribs, extensive bruising, and signs characteristic of shaken baby syndrome, a severe form of child abuse that can lead to life-threatening injuries and even death. These findings have significantly increased the severity of the charges Perry faces.
As part of the legal process, prosecutors have filed a motion to delay proceedings in order to further review the child’s autopsy and the full implications of the findings. A status hearing has been scheduled for August 6, during which the court intends to address the need for new attorneys to represent Perry in this case.
The investigation continues as more details emerge regarding the tragic death of this young child. The situation has captured the attention of the community, with many expressing their sadness and concern over the loss of such a young life due to potential violence.
This incident underscores the deep need for vigilance and care in childcare settings, and it raises questions about safety and trust within familial and community contexts. As the legal process unfolds, community members remain hopeful for justice and answers regarding the events that led to this heartbreaking loss.
This developing story will be closely monitored as updates become available in court proceedings and the investigation continues to unfold.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Discovery of a Body Linked to Reanne Coulson Case
Boulder Man Indicted on Multiple Counts of Hate Crimes
Retired Boston Police Sergeant Defends Integrity After Read Acquittal
Williamsburg Welcomes New Golf Course and Local Events
Celeste Kellogg to Open for The Band Perry at Music Festival
Karen Read Acquitted of Murder Charges in Officer’s Death
Chilling Attack on Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband
Trio of Escaped Inmates Recaptured in New Orleans Jailbreak
Major Jail Break in New Orleans: 7 Escapees Captured
Tensions Escalate Between Trump and Netanyahu Over Embassy Shooting
Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- WAVY News
- Google Search: Zai-Twond Perry
- WTKR News
- Google Scholar: Child Murder Cases
- Pilot Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Shore News Network
- Google News: Newport News 1-year-old death
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
