A woman was found dead of an apparent suicide following warrants for her arrest in connection with the death of a 2-year-old child, according to a Chattanooga Police Department news release.
Officers were initially called to the 4700 block of Fairwood Lane about a child who was reportedly having difficulty breathing on Sept. 10. The boy, 2-year-old Vincent Carter, was taken to a local hospital and later succumbed to injuries, which were described as "suspicious in nature," police said.
An investigation by the Hamilton County Medical Examiner's Office ruled the toddler's death to be a homicide on Nov. 6, the release states.
Police then issued arrest warrants for Debra Barnes, 62, on charges of criminal homicide, aggravated child abuse and aggravated child neglect.
On Monday, officers responded to 2100 Hamilton Place Blvd., where Barnes was found dead of an apparent suicide, according to the news release.
Chattanooga Police ask anyone with information about the case to call the Homicide Tip Line at 423-643-5100 or submit a tip via the CPD Mobile App. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
- Compiled by Tierra Hayes