Prosecutors say Casper O’Brien was bedridden, nonverbal and living in unsafe conditions before his death.
FLINT TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A Flint Township couple has been charged with second-degree murder, torture and child abuse after authorities said their 7-year-old son died weighing 255 pounds following months of severe neglect.
Damien O’Brien, 40, and Jessica O’Brien, 41, are accused in the death of their son, Casper O’Brien, who died after a 911 call from the family’s home on Nov. 4, 2025. Prosecutors said the boy was bedridden, unable to speak and had not received needed medical care.
Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said paramedics found a home so crowded and filthy that officers had trouble entering. “The paramedics went into the house to try to revive the child,” Leyton said, adding that police reports described almost no room to move inside.
Authorities said Casper was taken to a hospital, where he died from dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disease, with morbid obesity listed as a contributing factor. Prosecutors said the boy was immobile and lived in a makeshift sleeping area with his parents and younger sister.
The couple is also charged in connection with the care of their 5-year-old daughter, who was removed from the home by Children’s Protective Services the day Casper died. Leyton said the girl was found naked, dirty and in poor condition. She is now in temporary foster care.
Investigators said both parents were employed and had health insurance, but neither child was getting regular medical care. Leyton said the parents called a veterinarian about a sick dog the same morning Casper went into medical distress, while prosecutors allege they failed to seek proper help for their son.
Damien and Jessica O’Brien are being held without bond. They are expected back in court July 2 as prosecutors move forward with charges that could carry life in prison if they are convicted.
Author note: Last updated June 27, 2026.