A Bronx mother residing at the Forest Houses in the Bronx, New York, has been charged with the murder of her 6-year-old daughter, causing anguish for the child’s father who seeks justice for his beloved daughter.
Jelayah Eason was tragically discovered bruised and unconscious in her mother’s apartment on E. 165th Street on May 26, 2023. Despite efforts to save her at Lincoln Hospital, the young girl did not survive. Lynija Eason Kumar, 27, was taken into custody on Thursday and faces charges of murder and manslaughter, according to authorities.
Expressing his grief, Ronald Branch shared memories of his daughter, describing her as a loving girl who adored her father. He expressed the hope that justice would prevail for his daughter in the upcoming trial.
Reports from the Bronx District Attorney’s office stated that Eason Kumar was arraigned and detained on Friday. The court documents revealed disturbing details of the child’s death, citing severe abuse, restraints, blunt force injuries, and neglect that ultimately led to her passing.
In addition to the tragic loss of Jelayah, two other children in the household, an 8-year-old boy and a 3-year-old girl, were found to have also suffered from abuse and neglect. The conditions of the home were described as insect-infested and squalid, with overwhelming odors of rotting food, feces, and urine as reported by law enforcement officials.
Following Jelayah’s death, Branch had to undergo DNA testing to prove his relationship to the children as they were placed in foster care. The father eventually obtained custody of his son and was able to lay his daughter to rest after months of waiting.
Neighbors in the vicinity recounted the harrowing environment in the apartment where Eason resided, describing instances of distressing screams and concerning behavior towards the children. Community members expressed regret for not intervening sooner to possibly prevent the tragedy that unfolded.
As the community mourns the loss of Jelayah, her father continues to seek solace and closure, clinging to the hope that justice will prevail for his daughter and other children affected by the heartbreaking events.