A deeply disturbing case from Ohio has taken a serious turn, as a man who once reported a child missing is now facing murder charges. The case involves the death of a young boy with special needs and has shocked many due to the details revealed by investigators.
Man Charged with Murder in Child’s Death
In Dayton, 39-year-old Michael Kendrick and 36-year-old Ashley Johnson have both been arrested in connection with the death of 7-year-old Hershall Creachbaum.
The case is being investigated by the Dayton Police Department.
New Charges Filed Against Both Accused
Authorities have now added more charges against both individuals.
Kendrick is facing:
- Murder
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Two counts of endangering children
- Tampering with evidence
- Abuse of a corpse
Johnson is facing:
- Abuse of a corpse
- Tampering with evidence
- Obstructing justice
Missing Report That Raised Suspicion
Police say Kendrick initially reported the child missing on July 12, 2025, claiming the boy disappeared around 3:30 a.m.
However, officers quickly became suspicious:
- The child had nonverbal autism and used a wheelchair
- The wheelchair was found separately
- Evidence suggested the boy had not gone missing recently
Investigation Reveals Disturbing Details
Within hours of the report, the child’s remains were discovered. Investigators later said they believed the boy had died weeks earlier.
According to officials:
- Johnson had left her son in Kendrick’s care while she was in hospital
- Kendrick first claimed the child died naturally
- Later, he allegedly admitted to physically harming the boy
Police say Kendrick told them he punched the child and caused him to fall, leading to fatal injuries.
Alleged Actions After Death
Authorities allege that after the child’s death, Kendrick:
- Kept the body inside the home
- Moved it to a freezer
- Wrapped it and placed it in a suitcase
- Disposed of it near train tracks
- Later moved the remains again
These details have added to the seriousness of the case.
Current Custody Status
Both suspects are being held at the Montgomery County Jail.
- Kendrick is being held without bond
- Johnson is being held on a $25,000 bond
They are scheduled to appear in court on April 30.
