NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Officials in Norfolk say an 11-year-old girl who died late last week was killed by blunt force trauma to the head and torso.
An official with the Office of the Norfolk Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death for Heaven Watkins to 10 On Your Side Thursday.
The case was ruled a homicide.
Watkins’ mother, 33-year-old Latoya M. Smith, and her boyfriend, 43-year-old Demont J. Harris, are both charged with first-degree murder.
Police and fire-rescue crews responded to Balview Avenue for an unresponsive 11-year-old girl, who was later identified by family members as Watkins.
Watkins was pronounced dead at the scene.
Harris and Smith appeared in court earlier this week, where a judge set a preliminary hearing. Smith was denied bond in a hearing on May 25.
Police said new charges against the two came up during an investigation into Watkins’ death. Documents show Smith is charged with child abuse and neglect, while Harris is charged with assault.
According to police, the charges stemmed from an alleged incident in February that involved Watkins.
Stay with WAVY.com for the latest developments.
