Mother's Boyfriend Charged With Murdering 3-Year-Old Mariah Woods

More details have emerged about the tragic death of 3-year-old Mariah Woods, who was found dead in North Carolina back in December. This week, her mother’s live-in boyfriend was charged with the girl’s murder following an autopsy report. That report revealed that Woods died from chloroform toxicity, the Onslow County, North Carolina, Sheriff’s Office stated on Wednesday.

As People explained, a chloroform-soaked rag is often used by criminals to knock people out in popular culture and media.

The suspect, Adolphus Earl Kimrey, 32, was already in custody. He was arrested in December in connection with the little girl’s disappearance on charges of obstruction of justice, conceal an unattended death, possession of stolen goods, second-degree burglary and larceny after breaking and entering, according to the Onslow County Sheriff's Office. 

Now, those charges have been upgraded. He has been charged with first-degree murder and felony child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury/death. It is unclear at this time if Kimrey has an attorney who can speak on his behalf. 

The toddler vanished after her mom Kristy Woods tucked her into bed. Later, the FBI announced a dive team had discovered human remains, according to CNN, in a creek near a highway.

According to Fox News, court documents have revealed that Kimrey allegedly sexually abused the 3-year-old and her two of her brothers. Kristy was allegedly aware of the alleged abuse, but she hasn’t been charged with anything.

"Kristy Woods has been cooperative with the investigation and continues to cooperate with the detectives as the investigation continues," the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. "These additional charges do not mean the investigation is concluded but will continue until all leads and information are thoroughly evaluated."

[Photo: Onslow County Public Information Office]