A 9-year-old student of Powers Elementary School in Amherst, Ohio has tragically passed away after he was killed by his mother in a murder suicide following custody dispute. The apparent murder-suicide occurred in Amherst Township on Wednesday morning and is being looked into by the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office.
Cause of death
According to Captain Robert E. Vansant Jr. of the Lorain County sheriff’s office, Amherst firemen found the deaths of a mother and her 9-year-old child inside a residence they were called to for a house fire, prompting officers to the 300 block of Broadway Avenue just before 7:30 a.m.
According to Vansant, the early investigation indicates that the lady killed her child, set the house on fire, and then committed herself. Vansant stated that it is critical to recognize the significant loss being experienced by the Amherst and Amherst Township communities as well as the Amherst Exempted School District as this investigation proceeds.
According to Lorain County Sheriff’s Office Captain Robert Vansant, child services information made them believe the murder-suicide might have been connected to a custody issue in which the mother might have lost her child.
Amherst Exempted School District Statement
It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the death of one of our beloved elementary students. A few moments ago, the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department reported that there has been an apparent murder/suicide involving a Powers Elementary School student. While the name of the child has not been released, we are working closely with the Sheriff’s Department as they investigate.
As more information becomes available, we will continue to keep you informed. Additionally, counseling and support services will be provided for our students, staff, and the broader community.
During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that you keep the family and our entire community in your thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,
Mike Molnar
Superintendent
