4-Year-Old's Death Tied To Abuse And Neglect By Relatives In Manassas

MANASSAS, VA — Charges have resulted from a child abuse and neglect case involving the death of a 4-year-old boy in the Manassas area of Prince William County, police say. The incident also affected the victim's 5-year-old sister, who was put into the care of Child Protective Services along with 12-year-old and 14-year-old children in the residence.

Police had responded around 7:26 p.m. on Jan. 19 to a report of an unconscious child at The Regency Apartments in the 9800 block of Shallow Creek Loop. Fire and rescue personnel provided CPR to the 4-year-old boy and took him to the hospital, where he later died.

Detectives learned through an investigation that the boy and his 5-year-old sister suffered long-term abuse and neglect from three relatives who were primary caretakers. According to police, the boy was often bound with plastic wrap and packing tap. An autopsy found he was severely malnourished and dehydrated. The investigation found both children were regularly deprived of food and water.

The 5-year-old girl, as well as 12-year-old and 14-year-old children living at the apartment, are in the custody of Child Protective Services. The victim's name is not being released due to his age.

Detectives obtained arrest warrants Wednesday for the three relatives. Rebecca Ann Romero, 53, of Manassas, and Shanyah Elizabeth Dilda, 22, of Manassas, were charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect. Kemmilyn Anita Wade, 18, of Manassas, was charged with felony murder and felony child abuse and neglect. All were held without bond, and court dates are pending.

Anyone with information about the investigation can contact Prince William County Police at 703-792-6500 or pwcva.gov/policetip.