California Caregivers Arrested After 14-Year-Old Dependent Girl Starves to Death; Autopsy Rules Homicide

Two caregivers from Live Oak, California, were arrested in April after a 14-year-old girl in their care was found unresponsive in January 2025 and later pronounced dead. Authorities say the girl had developmental disabilities and relied entirely on a feeding tube for nutrition.

Megan Fredrick, 33, and Sherwood Johnson II, 37, were taken into custody on April 16 on charges of murder and child abuse causing death, the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. Both were arrested out of state and are currently being held at the Spokane County Jail pending extradition to Sutter County.

Deputies initially responded to the couple's home in January for a medical assistance call and discovered the juvenile unresponsive. Detectives opened a follow-up investigation because of the "suspicious nature of the circumstances," and determined the child required round-the-clock care and depended entirely on a feeding tube for nutrition.

An autopsy concluded the cause of death was starvation and neglect, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide, according to the sheriff's office release. Investigators say outstanding warrants led to the arrests after the suspects moved out of state following the incident.

Investigation Status and Next Steps

Fredrick and Johnson face charges that include murder and child abuse causing death. They remain in custody in Spokane County while Sutter County completes extradition paperwork. It was not immediately clear if either defendant has retained legal counsel.

"The death of a child is always tragic, and our hearts go out to the young victim in this case," Sheriff Brandon Barnes said. "Our staff assigned to Live Oak handled this case with professionalism and compassion."

This case is under active investigation. Prosecutors will determine whether additional charges are warranted as investigators review medical records, care documentation and other evidence related to the child's treatment and the circumstances leading to her death.

Why This Matters

The case highlights the vulnerability of individuals who require round-the-clock medical care and the responsibilities of caregivers and oversight agencies to ensure those needs are met. Updates will be provided as authorities release more information and legal proceedings move forward.