A 45-year-old woman in North Carolina, United States, Kymberli Bowden, is facing a first-degree h0micide charge following the death of her 13-year-old daughter, who weighed just 35 pounds after suffering severe malnutrition.
The girl, identified only as ZT, d!ed from acute necrotizing pneumonia and inanition, a condition associated with severe malnutrition and physical wasting, according to an autopsy report cited by FOX 8 News.
Her body was discovered at her mother’s home on October 14, 2025. Authorities said she had been deceased for approximately two days before she was found.
Prosecutors told the court that the medical examiner described the teenager as extremely emaciated, with matted hair, a gaunt face and sunken eyes. Recent medical records reportedly showed that she had previously weighed between 63 and 65 pounds.
Police were called to Bowden’s home in High Point after family members raised concerns that they had not seen the girl for months. Officers also found her 13-year-old twin brother alive in the house.
According to a warrant obtained by The News & Observer, the boy lacked proper nutrition, clothing and sanitary living conditions. He reportedly suffered serious psychological harm.
Police records also indicated that concerned neighbours had requested welfare checks on the children. Reports described the home as being filled with rubbish and rotten food.
Bowden was initially charged with two counts of felony child abuse and concealing a death. The homicide charge was filed after authorities received the final autopsy findings.
She could face life imprisonment if convicted. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December.
