DAYTON, OH – In a tragic turn of events, authorities have charged a mother and her boyfriend following the discovery of a seven-year-old boy’s remains just a short distance from his home. Hershel Krishbomb was found deceased near the McClure Street Bridge over US35, close to his residence on Xenia Avenue.
Ashley Johnson, Hershel’s mother, and her boyfriend, Michael Kendrick, are currently in custody. Police Chief Michael Turner announced that Kendrick reported the child missing via a 911 call on Saturday, but investigators now believe the boy had been dead for several weeks.
During a press briefing, Turner refrained from disclosing specific details about how or where Hershel died. However, the grim discovery was made within 16 hours of Kendrick’s call to authorities. Family members revealed that Hershel’s paternal grandmother had been his primary caregiver until an accident in November forced her to relinquish custody to Johnson.
Conversations with Hershel’s relatives highlighted long-standing concerns for the child’s welfare. These worries were not isolated, as Children Services had also been involved with the family. The agency’s role in the case remains under scrutiny as the investigation unfolds.
New court documents unveiled disturbing admissions from Kendrick, who confessed to striking Hershel twice, then concealing and moving his body. These revelations have intensified the focus on the couple’s responsibility in the case.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities considering additional charges. Chief Turner hinted at the potential for more serious allegations as the inquiry progresses.
The Dayton Public School District expressed profound sorrow over Hershel’s death. In a statement, they described him as a cherished member of both the Ruskin family and the broader school community, emphasizing the deep loss felt by students and staff.
As the community grapples with this heartbreaking incident, the search for justice continues, with investigators committed to uncovering the full truth behind Hershel’s tragic death.