TALLAHASSEE, FL — June 24, 2025 — A tragic and deeply disturbing case has gripped the city of Tallahassee after 25-year-old Deric Young was arrested and charged in connection with the death of a 1-year-old child, an incident authorities now believe was the result of intentional abuse.
The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) confirmed Tuesday that Young was taken into custody following a swift investigation by its Violent Crimes Unit, which began after officers responded to a medical emergency at a residence in southern Tallahassee on Monday afternoon, June 23.
Emergency responders were called to the scene around 1:00 p.m., where they found the child unresponsive. Life-saving efforts were performed at the home before the child was transported to a nearby hospital, where they were tragically pronounced dead.
Initially treated as a medical emergency, the situation quickly escalated into a criminal case when hospital staff and investigators noticed injuries that were inconsistent with an accidental death. Forensic examinations revealed that the child had suffered blunt force trauma, prompting police to shift the focus of the investigation.
Young, who was reportedly caring for the child at the time and was well known to the family, was at the scene when officers arrived. He was detained without incident and later booked into the Leon County Jail, where he now faces charges of felony murder and aggravated child abuse — both of which carry significant prison time, including the possibility of life imprisonment.
“This is one of the most heartbreaking cases our officers have encountered,” said TPD Chief Lawrence Revell in a public statement. “The loss of a young child under such horrific circumstances is beyond words. We will ensure that justice is pursued fully and that those responsible are held accountable.”
The child’s identity is being withheld due to their age and the sensitive nature of the case. Officials have confirmed that the child was just over a year old and had been left in Young’s care for an extended period leading up to the incident.
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has launched a parallel investigation and is working with police to determine if there are other children at risk. The agency has also begun a review of any previous reports or warnings involving Young or the household.
Neighbors and community members reacted with shock and sorrow as word of the arrest spread. Outside the residence, grieving neighbors have placed teddy bears, flowers, and candles in a growing makeshift memorial. Many expressed outrage and sadness over what appears to be yet another case of unreported child abuse leading to a fatal outcome.
“He looked like a regular guy, nothing out of the ordinary,” said one neighbor. “But this? This is evil. That baby didn’t deserve to die like this.”
Local child advocacy groups, including the Big Bend Child Abuse Prevention Council, issued public statements urging families to report any signs of abuse and reminding the community of the importance of speaking up when a child’s safety may be at risk.
“This tragedy could have possibly been prevented,” said a spokesperson for the council. “We all have a role to play in protecting children. If something feels wrong — report it. You might save a life.”
Young is expected to appear in court for a bond hearing in the coming days. The State Attorney’s Office for the 2nd Judicial Circuit has confirmed that prosecutors will pursue the most serious charges available under Florida law.
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or visit reportabuse.dcf.state.fl.us
For emergencies, always call 911.