Damien O'Brien, 40, and Jessica O'Brien, 41, were charged in June 2026 with second-degree murder after the death of their 7-year-old son, Casper O'Brien, who weighed approximately 255 pounds and was about 4 feet 2.5 inches tall at the time of his death [1, 2, 3]. Casper died in November 2025 after being found in medical distress and pronounced dead at a hospital [1, 2, 3].
Authorities allege the couple caused serious physical harm through neglect. Casper suffered from severe obesity linked to an unbalanced diet consisting mainly of potato chips and fries and was immobile. He had not received appropriate medical care and lacked a safe living environment [1, 2, 3]. Prosecutor David Leyton said, "This child did not have a pediatrician, was only taken to the doctor I believe, according to the police report, once" [1]. Casper last saw a doctor in February 2024 and was referred to a pediatric endocrinologist but never attended the appointment [1, 2, 3].
Casper's cause of death was identified as severe pathological obesity contributing to heart disease, specifically dilated cardiomyopathy [3]. Police also found the family living in poor and unsanitary conditions with the children sharing a makeshift bed [1, 3].
The couple also faced second-degree child abuse charges involving their 5-year-old daughter, who was medically considered morbidly obese and was found naked, dirty, and with knotted hair outside the home [1, 2, 3]. Despite having medical insurance and stable income, the family neglected to seek or provide necessary care for the children [1, 2, 3].
If convicted, Damien and Jessica O'Brien could face life imprisonment [1, 2, 3]. The couple’s first court appearance is scheduled for early July 2026 [3].
