Listen Now: Morning News

Murder warrant issued in Parkersburg baby girl’s death

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — An arrest warrant has been issued for a Pleasants County man who Parkersburg Police say is responsible for the death of a baby girl.

Ariella Noel Merinar, age 1, died on Tuesday.

Curtis Dean Richards, Jr.

On Thursday, investigators said they were looking for Curtis Dean Richards, Jr., 30, of St. Marys. He’s wanted for Merinar’s murder.

Richards was caring for the girl and her sister, age 2, at the time. According to investigators, Richards was the boyfriend of the girls’ mother who was at work on Tuesday morning.

Parkersburg Police said Richards had claimed the two-year-old choked the one-year-old with a blanket and she stopped breathing.

An autopsy conducted on Thursday showed the girl had severe head and neck injuries.

Richards is believed to be driving a black Toyota truck with a West Virginia license plate 4XA-886.

The Parkersburg Police Department can be reached at 304-424-8444.

 





More News

News
MetroNews This Morning 3-29-24
Summary of West Virginia news, sports, and weather for Friday, March 29, 2024
March 29, 2024 - 6:24 am
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 29, 2024 - 1:23 am
News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm


Your Comments