Smithton, PA – A heartbreaking case has emerged in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, where 9-year-old Renesmay Eutsey was found dead, partially submerged in the Youghiogheny River. The girl’s foster mother, Kourtney Malinda Eutsey, 31, now faces multiple criminal charges, including criminal homicide, following the grim discovery.
Discovery of Renesmay Eutsey’s Body and Initial Investigation
Authorities discovered Renesmay’s body near Smithton, approximately 20 miles from her Dunbar Borough home. The young girl was last seen at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday but was not reported missing until nearly 11 hours later at 12:41 p.m.. An electronic device believed to belong to Renesmay pinged inside the residence around 6 a.m., raising concerns about the timeline of events.
- Renesmay was found partially submerged in the Youghiogheny River.
- Foster mother Kourtney Eutsey faces charges that include aggravated assault, child endangerment, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and concealing a child’s death.
- Authorities reported signs of abuse and neglect, including malnourishment, bruises, and cigarette burns.
Fayette County District Attorney Michael Aubele said, “It is very apparent that this girl suffered.”
Alarming Signs of Abuse and Witness Accounts
Investigators uncovered disturbing evidence of abuse during the case. Renesmay appeared malnourished, weighing only 45 pounds, with visible bruises and burns that pointed to prolonged abuse. Multiple witnesses, including another child in the home, provided chilling testimonies.
- A child told police she would “never going to see my baby sister again because she’s in Heaven.”
- Another witness overheard conversations about taking Renesmay to a river “far, far away” and reported hearing her screams.
- The witness described seeing Renesmay in a bag with white lips, appearing as though she was sleeping.
- The same witness was reportedly punched by Kourtney Eutsey after witnessing abuse.
Foster Mother’s Statement and Legal Proceedings
When questioned, Kourtney Eutsey claimed that Renesmay began choking after vomiting and that she attempted but failed to clear her airway. According to her statement, Renesmay died, and she then placed the body in a bag before driving to the river and placing it along the shore.
- Kourtney Eutsey is currently held without bail at Fayette County Prison.
- Additional charges are anticipated as the investigation proceeds.
- An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
- Three other children living in the home have been removed for their safety.
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Community Concerns and Resources for Child Abuse Prevention
This tragic case highlights the critical need for vigilance regarding child welfare. If you suspect child abuse, immediate action can save lives.
- Contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453.
- Visit www.childhelp.org for confidential, 24/7 assistance in over 170 languages.
For more detailed information on the case, please visit People.com.
What Can Be Done to Protect Vulnerable Children?
This case underscores the importance of community awareness and timely reporting of suspected abuse. Experts emphasize the role that neighbors, schools, and social services play in safeguarding children from neglect and harm.
District Attorney Michael Aubele highlighted, “As this investigation continues, we urge anyone with information to come forward to ensure justice and prevent further tragedies.”
What do you think about this tragic case? Have you been involved in any child welfare initiatives? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.