A Delaware man has been charged with murder after authorities say his 10-year-old daughter died following a severe beating at their home in Smyrna.
Girl Found Dead in Bedroom
According to Delaware State Police, 49-year-old Badara Kone allegedly struck his daughter, Fatima Kone, multiple times with a leather belt on May 27 as a form of discipline.
Investigators believe Fatima fell during the beating and hit her head on a piece of furniture. Her brothers, ages 15 and 11, then helped her to her bedroom.
Fatima was later found dead in her room. Police said 911 was not called immediately, and authorities were eventually notified shortly after 2 a.m. on May 28.
Death Ruled a Homicide
An autopsy determined that Fatima died from multiple blunt-force injuries, and her death was ruled a homicide.
During the investigation, detectives also found evidence that Fatima and her two brothers had allegedly been subjected to ongoing physical abuse.
Father Charged
Kone was arrested and charged in connection with Fatima’s death and the alleged abuse of her brothers.
He faces charges including murder, two counts of continuous child abuse, and eight counts of fourth-degree child abuse.
Kone remains in custody on a $180,000 cash bond.
