KALAMAZOO, Mich. — A 4-year-old girl who died last weekend was reportedly abused, according to Child Protective Services.
The Kalamazoo County Prosecutor’s office confirmed with FOX 17 that Kharisma Richardson was beaten with a belt, punched in the face and chest, and had suffered burns bad enough to blister her hands and feet.
She was found dead at a home in the 1100 block of Douglas Avenue at about 9:30 a.m. Saturday. Police say it was her 4th birthday.
Kharisma’s mother, Daveeta Walker, was in court earlier this week for a preliminary examination to determine whether she’s fit to have custody of her three other children. Child abuse charges were initially sought against Walker, but were denied pending autopsy results.
Two men were in court Wednesday trying get full custody of her kids following Kharisma’s death. Both men are believed to have fathered children with Daveeta Walker.
Kalamazoo police said the evidence at the scene indicated Kharisma did not die from natural causes. Her death is being investigated as suspicious.
Anyone who may have information regarding this investigation is asked to call Kalamazoo Public Safety at 269-337-8994, Silent Observer at 269-343-2100.
