SCOTTSVILLE, Ky. — The case surrounding the tragic death of 1-year-old Mason Moulding is set to advance to an Allen County grand jury on September 23. This follows a two-month investigation into hazardous living conditions, potential abuse, and injuries related to the child’s untimely demise. The police first found Mason unresponsive on July 27, leading to allegations of murder against his mother’s boyfriend, as well as charges of criminal abuse against the child’s mother and grandmother.
Deavan Williams, 22, has been charged with murder and initially faced accusations of first-degree criminal abuse involving a child under the age of 12. Mason’s mother, 22-year-old Alexandrae Price, and grandmother, 51-year-old Tina Renee Price, are also facing criminal-abuse charges. While all three are currently presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, the charges stem from a chilling investigation that has revealed disturbing details about Mason’s living environment.
Court documents indicate that Mason was last seen alive with his mother at a local grocery store hours before the child lost consciousness. Alexandrae Price went to work, leaving him under the care of Williams, who claimed to be the main caregiver. However, his statements vary regarding the circumstances leading to Mason collapsing, including a disturbing account of the child allegedly choking on part of a soiled diaper.
In the aftermath, law enforcement described finding Mason with visible injuries, including bruising and bleeding. Preliminary medical examinations suggested signs of severe trauma that authorities believe warrant further scrutiny. The results of the complete autopsy report are still pending, but the evidence collected leads investigators to suspect all three adults played roles in Mason’s care that were not only negligent but potentially abusive.
The conditions in the Cottage Drive residence where Mason lived have drawn significant attention. Reports detail an unkempt living space lacking basic amenities, notably running water. Investigators observed unsanitary conditions, including animal waste and a buildup of trash that could pose dangers to a child. Williams admitted to using a garden hose to bathe Mason, further illustrating the unsafe living environment.
Moreover, the investigation broadened following Mason’s death, as animal control officials removed multiple pets from the home, citing neglect and poor health. This led to the apprehension of Tina Renee Price, who is facing charges related to animal cruelty in addition to her abuses of Mason.
Authorities have remained tight-lipped throughout the investigation, citing the ongoing nature of the case. As more evidence comes to light, it raises a host of questions about the circumstances surrounding Mason’s care and the alarming conditions he endured. The grand jury’s role will be to evaluate the evidence presented and ascertain whether sufficient grounds exist for the continuation of felony charges in court.
While the community mourns Mason’s loss, law enforcement continues to emphasize that they are committed to a thorough investigation. The upcoming grand jury proceeding will be a crucial step in determining culpability and whether further legal action is warranted against those involved in the boy’s life.
As of now, the public awaits clarity from both the medical examiner and investigators regarding the final cause of Mason’s death. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in similar situations and the urgent need for protective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.