GRAFTON, WV – The tragic death of an 11-year-old girl in Grafton has cast a spotlight on a harrowing case of alleged starvation and neglect that investigators say unfolded over several years inside her home.
Authorities say the child, whose name has not been released, endured severe malnutrition and isolation in the months leading up to her death in February. Emergency responders found her unresponsive on the kitchen floor of her family’s home on Nector Street on the evening of Feb. 16, following a call for help. Despite attempts by medical personnel to resuscitate her, she was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to Grafton City Hospital.
According to law enforcement officials, the girl weighed just 43 pounds at the time of her death, a figure experts described as drastically below the expected range for a child her age. Medical examiners reported that her frame was so thin that her bones protruded and that she showed signs of chronic malnourishment, including head lice, yellowed skin, and numerous bruises and lacerations.
The child’s stepmother, Shannon Faith Robinson, 51, was arrested this week and faces a charge of murder of a child by a parent or guardian by refusal or failure to supply necessities. Officials identified Robinson as the victim’s primary caregiver.
An autopsy later determined the girl died from acute bronchopneumonia, a lung infection, with “failure to thrive” listed as a contributing factor. Investigators found that her weight and height were well below the fifth percentile for her age and sex, a sign of prolonged deprivation.
Statements from household members and acquaintances revealed disturbing patterns of isolation and neglect. According to court documents, the girl had been kept away from others and had rarely, if ever, seen a doctor since 2020, shortly after moving in with Robinson. Witnesses told investigators that the girl had been visibly sick for many months, eventually growing so weak she could no longer walk unassisted and spent most of her time sleeping.
Family and friends also informed authorities that the girl was routinely deprived of food as punishment. Witnesses said she was sometimes denied meals for extended periods if she resisted demands, while others in the household ate regular meals in front of her.
Interviews indicated that despite her declining health, Robinson and the victim’s father did not seek medical care out of fear that her deteriorating physical state would draw suspicion and accusations of abuse. Two other individuals living in the home confirmed the child was kept in diapers due to prolonged diarrhea, but never received professional medical treatment, even after showing symptoms that persisted for over a week.
Officials said Robinson has been booked into the Tygart Valley Regional Jail and is being held without bond. As of Thursday, a court date had not been set.
The child’s father, who was present when first responders arrived, has not been charged in connection with the case. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather information about the circumstances that led to the young girl’s death.