Florida – In Florida, a fataI incident has led to the arrest of a woman and her boyfrlend in connection with the death of her 1-year-old chiId. ZayIa Goodwin, 20, and Nathanel, 23, were taken into custody last week, following an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death.
The parent faces a charge of aggravated mansIaughter of a child, while her partner is charged with first-degree murder, two counts of se-ual battery, aggravated chiId abuse, and tampering with evidence. A grand jury recently indicted the man on the first-degree murder charge. Both individuals (SEE PHOTO) are currently held without bond, awaiting further legal proceedings.
On September 10, 2024, emergency responders were called to the family’s residence in Florida for a medical emergency involving a young child. Upon arrival, paramedics found the 1-year-old girl unresponsive and in cardiac arrest. She was transported to the Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, the child passed away eight days later, on September 18, 2024.
An autopsy revealed that the child died from blunt force trauma and had meth in her system at the time of death. Investigators discovered multiple injuries, including a broken Ieft arm, fractures to both legs, and bruising. Additionally, bloody bandages, blankets, and diapers were found at the residence. A search also yielded meth and drug paraphernalia.
The victim’s parent reported to detectives that she awoke to her partner performing CPR on her daughter, claiming he found the child unresponsive and face-down on the mattress. She stated that the man attempted to revive the child by placing her in the bathtub but was unsuccessful. She also mentioned that the child had been experiencing difficulties walking and had a swollen mouth prior to the incident.
The woman told authorities in Florida that her child had fallen during a bath given by her boyfriend about a week before the incident. While she didn’t witness the fall, she said her partner told her that the victim fell backward and then stood up before falling forward. Afterward, the mother noticed that the child had difficulty walking but did not observe any concerning bruising or injuries.
Additionally, she mentioned that the girl’s lips became very red and swollen the day before she became unresponsive. She initially thought it was an allergic reaction and gave her medicine, but it didn’t seem to help. She said the baby had trouble eating and drinking due to the swelling and pain in her mouth. She told investigators she scheduled a doctor’s appointment for September 13 but had not sought medical attention before then, as her partner had insisted against it.
The deaths of young children have a profound impact on the community, and this case is no exception. The Sheriff’s Office has expressed its commitment to pursuing the harshest possible penalties for those responsible. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicions of child abuse, emphasizing that children are the community’s most precious asset.
As the legal process unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for justice for the young victim and increased awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.