4-year-old boy killed in Florida, foster parents arrested for his murder, police say

A 4-year-old boy died in Florida and now police say his foster parents have been charged with his murder.

On April 15, James Reese Jr., 4, was brought to Wolfson Children’s Hospital on life support, but died on April 21, police said.

Because of the severity of his injuries and his passing, an investigation began by the homicide unit into the circumstances surrounding his death and Action News Jax reported his death was being investigated as a homicide.

Police have not released details on how the child died or the extent of his injuries. 

According to authorities, Michelle Sipko, 38, and Alexander Pino, 30, were James’ foster parents and were identified as persons of interest in his death and arrest warrants were issued.

Sipko and Pino turned themselves in on May 13, police said.

Family Support Services of North Florida told Action News Jax, “Our hearts are breaking at this tragedy. FSS and our partners are working closely with law enforcement to ensure that whoever is responsible for harming James is brought to justice. Right now our thoughts are with James’s family as well as the social services workers who are involved in the case. For family members and child welfare professionals committed to protecting children, it’s the worst imaginable scenario for a child to be harmed at the hands of an adult.”

Authorities said Pino was charged with second-degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges and Sipko is charged with manslaughter and child neglect charges.