CHESTERFIELD, VA – The mother of a 28-year-old man with autism is behind bars after authorities say years of neglect ended in his death, exposing severe living conditions in a quiet Chesterfield County neighborhood.
Somak Nath, described by those who knew him as shy and nonverbal, was discovered unconscious in the driveway of his family’s home on October 22. Medics rushed him to a nearby hospital, but he could not be revived. The Chesterfield County Medical Examiner’s office later documented signs of grave neglect, including weight loss so severe that Nath weighed only 65 pounds at the time of his death. Forensic specialists also detailed extensive dental decay, missing and rotted teeth, persistent sores, and unwashed skin.
Investigators soon focused their attention on Manisha Nath, Somak’s mother and sole caretaker. Family accounts collected by officials made it clear that Somak was unable to perform daily living tasks or communicate his needs and relied exclusively on his mother’s support.
As detectives combed through the home, they reported discovering a scene marked by deprivation and hazard. The kitchen held scant provisions, and authorities noted a pervasive presence of black mold throughout the house. Maintenance had fallen so far behind that the plumbing was no longer functioning, and authorities say running water was not available inside. According to police statements, Manisha Nath admitted that she gave her son only buckets of water and a mug for bathing, as none of the home’s toilets were in working order.
Neighbors in the suburban community painted a portrait of isolation. Few could say when they last saw Somak; some recounted only occasional glimpses of the young man sitting quietly outside, detached from the neighborhood around him. Others recalled how, as a child, he would play gently in the yard or on a neighbor’s swing set.
The news came as a shock to longtime residents, many of whom held Manisha Nath in high regard because of her academic accomplishments and apparent dedication to raising her children. Expressions of disbelief were common as word of the allegations spread.
Despite outward appearances, authorities allege a pattern of chronic neglect. Following the results of the autopsy and additional investigation at the home, police arrested Manisha Nath on charges of abuse and neglect resulting in the death of a vulnerable adult. Official reports indicate she acknowledged to investigators that her son was not capable of living alone.
Manisha Nath remains in custody at the Chesterfield County Jail, where she awaits a hearing scheduled for November 18. Authorities said Monday that the investigation remains active as officials seek to determine the full scope of the situation.
The case has prompted serious questions among Chesterfield residents about warning signs, as well as renewed attention on the challenges facing families tasked with the care of adults with severe developmental disabilities.