Michigan Parents Charged After Death of Obese Son, 7

A Michigan couple is facing murder charges after their 7-year-old son died of heart disease while weighing 255 pounds. Prosecutors allege years of neglect, reports NBC News. Damien and Jessica O'Brien, ages 40 and 41, were arraigned last week in Genesee County on counts including second-degree murder, torture, and multiple child abuse charges. Their son, Casper, died in November, and newly released autopsy found his death was caused by extreme morbid obesity. Prosecutors tell TMZ that his diet consisted mostly of French fries and chips and that the boy spent nearly all his time in bed.

"This was a sad and horrific case involving the wanton and willful neglect by two parents for the care, welfare, and medical needs of their son," said Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton in a statement to People. Leyton said the boy, who did not go to school, suffered severe bedsores, rashes, and other health problems linked to his weight. The couple also faces an additional child abuse charge tied to their then-5-year-old daughter, who was allegedly found extremely overweight, dirty, with matted hair, and naked outside when officers arrived. A probable cause hearing is set for Thursday.