Ecorse, MI – Authorities in Wayne County are detailing a disturbing case involving a 14-year-old nonverbal girl with autism who died after what prosecutors describe as catastrophic physical abuse. The girl, Kylee Clark, passed away at a Detroit-area hospital in July, and her mother is now charged with murder in connection with her death.
The case has drawn widespread attention due to the severity of the injuries, conflicting statements provided by the mother, and previous concerns raised to Child Protective Services.
Autopsy Findings and Initial Investigative Details
Investigators say Kylee died from blunt force trauma to the back of the head, an injury prosecutors compared to the impact of a high-speed car crash, as reported by the Metro Detroit News. Medical personnel noted the injuries were not consistent with a fall or accidental choking, contradicting the various explanations given by Vangie Renee Averhart, Kylee’s 37-year-old mother.
Averhart allegedly gave multiple, conflicting accounts of what happened. She initially claimed Kylee choked on a sandwich and later insisted it was a banana. She also attempted to implicate her boyfriend, but investigators said he passed a polygraph test and was not present when Kylee was injured, according to the report.
Conflicting Accounts and History of Concerns
Officials said Kylee, who was nonverbal and required specialised care, had been living in a locked room within the home. Prosecutors also allege Averhart told others that she “didn’t want this child anymore,” raising further concerns about Kylee’s treatment in the household.
Child Protective Services had reportedly investigated the family multiple times prior to the fatal incident due to safety concerns involving Kylee.
Family members told local reporters that Kylee sustained the fatal injuries at home on July 7 and died five days later in hospital.
Family Reaction and Public Statements
Members of Kylee’s extended family expressed grief and outrage after learning more about the circumstances surrounding her death. In a statement to the Metro Detroit News, Kylee’s paternal great-uncle Jeffrey Clark criticised Averhart’s actions and her shifting explanations.
“Kylee’s mother lied right from the get-go about pretty much everything. She’s just rotten,” he said. “I mean, it’s her own flesh and blood.”
Clark said Kylee’s father had been trying to gain custody in the months leading up to the incident, believing the girl was not receiving appropriate care.
“And supposedly she said ‘you can have her, I don’t want her,’” he recalled. “It’s hard to fathom. I don’t know if it’s some vindictive thing on her part or if she’s just pure evil.”
Charges and Upcoming Court Proceedings
Averhart is currently being held without bond in the Wayne County Jail. According to court records, her next hearing is scheduled for November 26. Detectives continue reviewing medical evidence, witness statements, and previous CPS case files as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities say additional charges could be considered if new information emerges. The case has reignited discussions around the protection of vulnerable children and the importance of monitoring households with repeated safety concerns.
Remembering Kylee and Her Spirit
Despite the devastating circumstances of her death, Kylee’s obituary paints a picture of a child who brought warmth and colour into the lives of those around her.
“Kylee had a vibrant soul and a beautiful way of experiencing the world,” the obituary read. “She loved music — it filled her days with joy and comfort — and she was always happiest when she had her favourite snacks nearby.”
Her family described her love for textures, colours, and simple comforts such as soft blankets and rhythmic songs. They said she had a way of noticing beauty others might overlook and brought light into every room she entered.
Community Impact and Awareness
Cases involving abuse of children with disabilities often lead to broader reminders about recognising warning signs. Advocates note that children who are nonverbal, like Kylee, rely heavily on caregivers and outside observers to raise concerns when something is wrong.
Signs such as withdrawal, unusual injuries, restricted living spaces, or sudden behavioural changes can indicate ongoing harm and should be reported immediately.
Community organisations specialising in autism support emphasise the need for increased oversight in households where caregivers express frustration, burnout, or resentment toward a child with high-needs disabilities.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Kylee Clark has left her family and community searching for answers while pushing for stronger protections for vulnerable children. As the case proceeds through the courts, many hope it leads to increased awareness and intervention in situations where children cannot speak for themselves.
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