4-year-old’s death in Wimauma ruled homicide by medical examiner: Deputies

4-year-old dies, homicide investigation begins

FOX 13's Blake DeVine reports. 

WIMAUMA, Fla. - The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office says the death of a 4-year-old child in Wimauma last month is now a homicide investigation.

The backstory:

According to HCSO, deputies responded to the 2500 block of Tee Time Road shortly before 3:30 p.m on Feb. 20. 

READ MORE: 4-year-old child found dead in Wimauma: HCSO

When deputies arrived at the scene, they found a child unresponsive and suffering from upper body trauma.

The child was later pronounced dead, according to the sheriff's office.

Since the child's death, HCSO said the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner's Office has ruled the manner of death as a homicide.

"This is a type of tragedy that can linger in a community," said Clara Reynolds, the president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

Reynolds believes this type of tragedy sends shock waves through the entire neighborhood.

"It certainly invokes a lot of feelings and emotions," she said. "Certainly, for individuals in that community, along with the family, friends and the entire Wimauma community."

Attorney JoDee Neil, who previously prosecuted crimes against children, said cases involving young victims often involve someone the child knows.

"A child under four who is the victim of a homicide is most likely to die at the hands of someone that that child knows," she said.

What they're saying:

"This is a heartbreaking case, and our detectives are working tirelessly to determine the events that led to this tragedy," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring anyone responsible is held fully accountable."

What we don't know:

HCSO has not released any additional information about potential suspects. Neil said this agony is another reminder of how vulnerable young children can be.

"Without that pain, we’re not going to be able to stop this," she said. "We’ve got to create a safer country for our children."

What you can do:

Investigators said the case remains active. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay, where tips could be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.