Three Women Charged with First-Degree Murder in Tragic Death of Six-Year-Old Girl
Authorities in North Carolina, United States, have announced that three women are facing first-degree murder charges in connection with the death of a six-year-old child. The case has shocked the community and drawn national attention due to the horrific circumstances surrounding the young victim's passing.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
Susan Robinson, aged 61, Tonya McKnight, 51, and Tery'n McKnight, 22, were all arrested on child abuse charges following the death of Dominique Moody in December 2025. According to reports from WBTV, the three women have now been formally charged with murder in the first degree. A judge has denied bond for all three defendants, ensuring they remain in custody as the legal proceedings move forward.
Disturbing Evidence of Abuse and Neglect
Police investigations revealed that Dominique Moody weighed only 27 pounds at the time of her death, indicating severe malnutrition. Authorities described the home where she lived as being in a state of severe neglect, with a strong odor of feces and urine permeating the residence. Court documents allege that the child was frequently restrained with duct tape and deliberately denied food, based in part on text messages reviewed by investigators.
Most shockingly, police reported that Dominique had been kept inside a dog crate and showed clear signs of prolonged abuse. These signs included healed ligature marks and open wounds, painting a grim picture of the suffering she endured.
History of Police Involvement and Guardian Responsibility
Police records indicate that officers had been called to the residence nearly 50 times before Dominique's death, suggesting a pattern of concerning incidents that preceded this tragedy. Tonya McKnight, one of the accused, was identified as Moody's legal guardian, raising serious questions about her role and responsibilities in the child's welfare.
At the time of the incident, four other children were living in the home, adding another layer of concern about the environment in which they were raised. The case continues to develop as authorities pursue justice for the young victim.
