Govenor Mike DeWine Responds as Child Deaths in Franklin County Spark Alarm
Columbus, Ohio – Govenor Mike DeWine Responds as Child Deaths in Franklin County Spark Alarm. In the past 15 months, Franklin County has witnessed the heartbreaking deaths of five children — Darnell Taylor, Martonio Wilder, Emmanuel Mims, Ja’Kai Smith, and Eva Bretz — all resulting from abuse or neglect. These tragedies have raised widespread concern, particularly since all five children had previous involvement with Franklin County Children Services.
Speaking during a tour of Coca-Cola’s new Columbus facility, Governor Mike DeWine — a longtime child welfare advocate — addressed the rising concerns.
“We are watching Franklin County very closely. It’s deeply concerning,” DeWine said, referencing previous state interventions in under-resourced counties.
Although DeWine did not confirm direct intervention yet, a spokesperson from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) stated that the department is working hand-in-hand with Franklin County, providing technical assistance and ongoing support. Unlike some smaller counties where the state has stepped in completely, Franklin County has its own Quality Improvement Department—a resource DCY believes can make a difference with added support.
According to the Ohio Child Fatality Review report covering 2018–2022:
- 52% of child fatalities were caused by abuse and 48% by neglect
- 69% of these children were under five years old
- Black children accounted for 36% of these deaths, highlighting racial disparities
- Bodily assault was the leading cause of abuse-related fatalities
The report also emphasized the link between child endangerment and poverty, housing instability, and food insecurity — conditions that are all too common for many Ohio families. These challenges not only increase vulnerability to abuse and neglect but also limit access to critical support services.
As the investigation continues, state officials, county agencies, and community stakeholders are being urged to work together to prevent further tragedies and ensure that no child in Ohio falls through the cracks.
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