US parents charged with murder in death of 7-year-old son who weighed 116kg

In Flint, Michigan, parents Damien and Jessica O’Brien have been charged with second-degree murder, torture, and three counts of second-degree child abuse in the death of their seven-year-old son, Casper. Casper O’Brien died in November after first responders were called to the family's home because he had stopped breathing. At the time of his death, the child weighed 116 kilograms (255 pounds) and was medically classified as obese. Prosecutors stated the parents were feeding the child improperly and he was not receiving adequate nutrition. The medical examiner listed dilated cardiomyopathy as the cause of death, with his weight being a contributing factor. The O’Briens are being held without bond pending a probable cause hearing.

A Michigan couple, Damien and Jessica O’Brien, have been charged with second-degree murder in the death of their seven-year-old son, Casper. Casper died on November 4, 2025, weighing 255 pounds, after being found in medical distress at their Flint Township home. Authorities allege the parents failed to provide a safe environment, did not seek medical attention for their son, and caused him serious physical harm. Casper had a scheduled appointment with a pediatric endocrinologist in February 2024 that his parents did not attend. The couple also faces a charge of second-degree child abuse involving their five-year-old daughter, who was also medically considered morbidly obese.