Tragic Discovery in Mississippi: Father Confesses to Killing 3-Year-Old Son Months After the Child’s Death

Lake, Mississippi — April 21, 2025

A haunting tragedy has emerged out of Scott County, Mississippi, where a 3-year-old boy’s life was taken months ago—yet no one had reported him missing.

Authorities confirmed that young Zhymir Fenderson was beaten to death in late January 2025, but the truth remained hidden until last Friday. His father, 36-year-old Rodkis Fenderson, allegedly kept up a web of lies for nearly three months, telling varying stories to friends and family whenever they asked about his son. That deception unraveled last week when he finally confessed to the crime during a police interview.

The case came to light after concerned relatives reported Zhymir missing on April 17. Family members told investigators they had not seen or heard from the boy since January and had grown increasingly suspicious after receiving conflicting accounts from the child’s father and stepmother, 32-year-old Kierra Patrick.

Following the confession, law enforcement officials launched an intensive search effort. With help from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, forensic teams, the state crime lab, and anthropology experts from Mississippi State University, authorities discovered Zhymir’s remains buried in a wooded area not far from the family’s residence.

Scott County Sheriff Mike Lee addressed the public with somber words:

“This is one of the most difficult cases we’ve ever faced. A child’s life ended far too soon, and to know he was gone all this time without anyone being allowed to mourn him—it’s beyond heartbreaking.”

Rodkis Fenderson has been charged with first-degree murder. His wife, Kierra Patrick, is facing charges as an accessory after the fact to murder, accused of helping to hide the child’s death and participating in the effort to mislead family and authorities.

Both suspects remain in custody at the Scott County Detention Center as the investigation continues. Court proceedings are expected to begin later this month.

A Community in Mourning

The revelation has devastated the local community of Lake, a small town not used to such horrifying news. Candles, teddy bears, and handwritten notes have begun appearing near the site where Zhymir was found. Neighbors and strangers alike are grieving the boy many never had the chance to meet.

“I can’t stop thinking about him,” one resident said through tears. “Three years old. That’s just a baby. We all failed him.”

Child protection advocates are urging the public to be vigilant and to report any signs of abuse or neglect.
If you suspect child abuse, contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 or visit www.childhelp.org.

As this investigation moves forward, so too does the grieving process for a young life stolen in silence. Deep condolences go out to the family members who are now left mourning this unimaginable loss, and to a community trying to come to terms with the tragedy that went unnoticed for far too long.