High Point, NC – A 44-year-old North Carolina woman has been arrested and charged after police discovered the body of her 13-year-old daughter inside a filthy, trash-filled home, where the child’s twin brother was also found alive but suffering from serious trauma. Authorities say the home conditions showed clear signs of long-term neglect and abuse.
The Incident: Police Discover Girl’s Body in Disturbing Conditions
According to the High Point Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check at Kymberli Bowden’s residence on October 13. When officers entered the home, they discovered the decomposing body of a 13-year-old girl along with her twin brother, who was still alive but in distress.
The probable cause affidavit described the home as being “filled with trash, rotting food, and unsanitary conditions.” Investigators said it was immediately clear that both children had been subjected to severe neglect.
Neighbors told police they saw officers and emergency crews outside Bowden’s residence that afternoon. One witness said Bowden was removed from the home on a gurney, though her medical condition at the time was not made public.
Investigation and Evidence: Severe Neglect and Malnutrition
Detectives began a comprehensive investigation into the child’s death, revealing shocking details about the lack of care and living conditions inside the home. According to police, Bowden had failed to provide adequate food and medical care for both her children.
“Bowden failed to provide adequate food for either of her children,” police wrote in the report. “In the case of her daughter, she also failed to provide medical care, which resulted in serious bodily injury and ultimately her death.”
Authorities said the surviving twin, though alive, showed signs of severe psychological injury and mental trauma. Investigators noted that forcing the boy to live in the same home as his deceased sister amounted to “prolonged neglect and extreme trauma.”
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
Following the investigation, Kymberli Bowden was formally charged with two counts of child neglect causing serious bodily injury and one count of concealment or failure to report the death of a child.
She was arrested on October 17 and booked into the Guilford County Jail on a $1 million bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for November 17.
Police have not disclosed who currently has custody of the surviving child, but officials confirmed that child protective services have been notified and are assisting in the case.
Bowden could face decades in prison if convicted on all charges.
Reactions and Community Shock
Residents of the High Point neighborhood expressed horror and disbelief after learning of the case. Several neighbors told local media that they rarely saw the children outside and had no idea about the conditions inside the home.
One neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “It’s heartbreaking. To think those kids were living like that right next door—it’s just unimaginable.”
The High Point Police Department issued a statement urging community members to report suspected child neglect or abuse immediately, emphasizing that early intervention can prevent tragedies like this one.
Background Context: Child Neglect Laws and Consequences
Under North Carolina law, child neglect causing serious bodily injury is a Class D felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 160 months (13 years) per count. The charge of concealment or failure to report the death of a child can add further years to a sentence.
Child welfare experts say the case underscores the importance of monitoring at-risk households and ensuring regular welfare checks, particularly when signs of neglect or isolation appear.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Authorities continue to investigate the timeline leading to the girl’s death, including how long she may have been deceased before discovery. Autopsy results are pending and expected to clarify the cause of death.
The surviving child is receiving medical care and psychological support while under protective supervision. Social service agencies are working to determine a long-term placement.
Officials have not stated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation progresses.
Conclusion
The death of a 13-year-old girl in such horrifying conditions has left the High Point community reeling. As investigators build their case against Kymberli Bowden, many are calling for stronger oversight and faster intervention in cases of suspected neglect.
Authorities say the top priority now is ensuring the safety and recovery of the surviving twin, while pursuing full accountability for the tragedy.
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