A jury convicted a teenager for the murder of a 4-year-old girl in Evansville, highlighting the tragic case that unfolded in June.
The verdict came after a four-day trial for 16-year-old Christian Gonzalez. Octavia was pronounced dead on June 16, and her family described her as a bright, cheerful child who loved arts and crafts and her favorite shows.
Police arrested Gonzalez and Octavia’s mother, Destiny Rhoades, after they found the little girl unresponsive in an apartment. Sadly, she died from blunt force trauma to her head and neck.
Gonzalez was in a relationship with Rhoades, who is facing her own trial for neglect and other charges. Reports say Gonzalez admitted to biting Octavia the day before she was found, and investigators believe he may have also strangled her.
Vanderburgh County Prosecutor Diana Moers emphasized the importance of protecting children and stated that her office will continue to pursue justice in such cases.
Gonzalez is set to be sentenced on February 13, and the community is still reeling from this tragic event.
