CLEVELAND, OH — Two children — a 9-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl — have been charged in connection with the rape and attempted murder of a 5-year-old girl who was found critically injured in a Cleveland field, according to the Cleveland Division of Police.
Authorities say the young victim was discovered “unresponsive and unrecognizable” after being reported missing. She was rushed to a nearby hospital and remains in critical condition.
The girl’s mother, who was undergoing a medical procedure at the time of the attack, told reporters that her daughter had been left in the care of a family member.
“My daughter did not look like herself,” she said, describing the extent of her injuries.
The 9- and 10-year-old suspects have been charged with attempted murder, four counts of rape, two counts of felonious assault, strangulation, and kidnapping.
Police are withholding further details due to the ages of those involved.
“Due to the sensitive nature of this case, releasing additional information at this time could jeopardize the integrity of the investigation and compromise the privacy and constitutional rights of those involved,” the Cleveland Division of Police said in a statement.
The case has shocked the community, with residents calling for justice and accountability as the investigation continues.
