An autopsy is expected to reveal how a 6-year-old boy died in a Fort Pierce home, according to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. The child, identified as Ra’Myl Pierre, was found deceased on May 30 at his residence in the 2500 block of Bedford Drive, Fort Pierce, following concerns over his prolonged absence from Samuel Gaines Academy since May 14.

Autopsy to Determine Cause of Death in Fort Pierce Child Death Investigation

The St. Lucie County Medical Examiner’s Office began conducting an autopsy on Saturday to determine the exact cause and manner of the child’s death. Authorities noted visible decomposition, suggesting the boy had been deceased for several days prior to discovery.

Ra’Myl’s mother, Rhonda Paulynice, 41, faces charges including second-degree murder, failure to report a death, and willfully touching or moving the body. Paulynice remains in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail without bail following her initial court appearance.

Details of Discovery at Fort Pierce Home

Deputies responded to the residence around 10:30 a.m. on May 30 after a welfare check request by a school resource officer. The officer expressed concern over Ra’Myl’s unexplained absence from school since mid-May.

Upon arrival, deputies encountered Paulynice outside the home. She reportedly behaved oddly, appeared indifferent, and initially refused to remove her sunglasses. When deputies asked about Ra’Myl, Paulynice directed them inside the home.

Inside, deputies found the boy’s body wrapped in fabric on a bed, with only his face exposed. Detectives noted the advanced state of decomposition, indicating he had likely been deceased for several days.

Mother’s Statements and Behavior Raise Concerns

During a subsequent interview, Paulynice reportedly told detectives she believed God instructed her to “exorcise demons” from her son’s body. According to Sheriff Richard Del Toro, Paulynice stated she believed her son would return to life after his death.

Detectives observed Paulynice exhibiting unusual emotional swings, alternating between laughter and crying during the investigation. Although she appeared distraught when allowed to say goodbye to her son, detectives questioned the sincerity of her emotions. This incident echoes another recent tragic incident in Port St. Lucie, highlighting growing concerns about child safety in the area.

Previous Incidents at Fort Pierce Residence

Sheriff Del Toro confirmed deputies previously visited the Bedford Drive home on May 17, one day before authorities believe Ra’Myl died, due to a medical issue involving Paulynice herself. Additionally, officials noted previous domestic disturbances at the residence involving Paulynice and her sister, dating back to January. However, none of these incidents involved the child directly.

Awaiting Autopsy Results to Confirm Cause of Death

Although detectives have a preliminary understanding of how Ra’Myl died based on Paulynice’s statements, they await autopsy results for official confirmation. The autopsy findings will play a crucial role in the ongoing investigation and subsequent legal proceedings. This follows another recent local tragedy where a Fort Pierce man died after a lake rescue incident, underscoring the importance of timely emergency response and thorough investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Autopsy in Fort Pierce Child Death

What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is a medical examination performed after a person’s death to determine the cause and manner of death. It involves examining the body externally and internally.

Where did the incident involving the 6-year-old boy occur?

The incident occurred at a home located in the 2500 block of Bedford Drive in Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County.

Are there charges filed against the child’s mother?

Yes, Rhonda Paulynice, the child’s mother, faces second-degree murder, failure to report a death, and charges related to moving the body. This case is reminiscent of a recent heartbreaking event in which a Port St. Lucie toddler fatally shot himself, leading to the arrest of his mother and her fiancé.

Can autopsy results impact criminal charges?

Yes, autopsy results can significantly impact criminal charges by providing official evidence regarding the cause and manner of death, which can support or alter charges.

How much time does an autopsy typically take?

An autopsy usually takes a few hours to complete, but final results, including toxicology reports, can take several weeks to become available.

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