by Hocking County, Ohio — An Ohio woman has been charged with murder in the death of her 10-month-old daughter after investigators concluded the infant suffered extensive and fatal injuries that were inconsistent with an accidental fall, according to state and local officials.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that Daisha Somers, 27, has been indicted on multiple felony charges in connection with the death of her daughter, Ka’myla Somers, who died in November 2022 after being placed on life support.
Severe Injuries Discovered During Medical Examination
According to the Hocking County Sheriff’s Office, medical evaluations revealed that the baby suffered seven skull fractures, retinal hemorrhages, multiple strokes, internal bleeding, blood in the urine, and prolonged cardiac arrest.
Authorities said these injuries were determined to be inconsistent with accidental trauma, contradicting the explanation initially provided to investigators.
Ka’myla was declared dead on November 23, 2022, after doctors found no signs of brain activity.
Initial Claims of Accidental Fall Questioned
Somers originally told investigators that her daughter had fallen from a toddler bed and struck her head. Her boyfriend, Jerry Johnson, who is not the child’s biological father, gave a similar account, claiming they heard a loud noise and later found the baby unresponsive.
However, investigators noted that neither adult called 911 or requested emergency medical assistance. Instead, the child was taken to the hospital in a personal vehicle several hours later, a delay authorities said raised serious concerns.
Drug Use Admitted During Investigation
According to the sheriff’s office, Somers admitted to smoking methamphetamine, while Johnson told investigators he had been drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana on the day Ka’myla was found unresponsive.
Johnson stated that he discovered the child not breathing while Somers was away doing laundry at another location.
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Both adults were initially charged with child endangerment, though those charges were later dismissed as prosecutors pursued a broader investigation.
Years-Long Investigation Leads to Murder Charges
Prosecutors acknowledged that the case required extensive analysis due to its reliance on forensic evidence, medical expert testimony, and specialized reviews.
A special prosecutor was appointed, and authorities said the delay in charges was necessary to confirm findings from multiple medical professionals.
Last week, a Hocking County grand jury indicted Somers on charges including:
- Murder
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Felonious assault
- Endangering children
- Corrupting another with drugs
- Aggravated possession of drugs
Somers was arrested in West Virginia and is currently being held without bond.
Johnson has not been charged with murder.
Remembering Ka’myla
Family members described Ka’myla as a joyful and loving child. A GoFundMe page launched by a relative shortly after her death remembered her as a baby whose smile “lit up a room.”
“She was full of life and learning to walk,” the fundraiser said. “She enjoyed cartoons and loved being talked to on the phone.”
What Comes Next
Prosecutors say the case will now move through the court system, with Somers facing the possibility of significant prison time if convicted. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed against others connected to the case.
Officials emphasized that the outcome reflects the importance of thorough investigation when child deaths involve complex medical evidence.
What are your thoughts on how long investigations like this take and the role of forensic evidence in child abuse cases? Share your perspective in the comments below.
