A heartbreaking case from Ohio has taken a serious turn after new charges were filed in the death of a young boy. Michael Kendrick, who initially reported the child missing, is now facing murder charges. The case has deeply shocked the community due to the victim’s age and condition.
What Happened to the Child
The victim, Hershall Creachbaum, was a 7-year-old boy with nonverbal autism who used a wheelchair. On July 12, 2025, Kendrick called emergency services claiming the child had gone missing in the early morning hours.
However, police quickly found the boy’s wheelchair, which raised doubts about the story. Within hours, the child’s remains were discovered, leading investigators to believe that he had not gone missing at all.
Police Investigation and Findings
Authorities later revealed that they believed the child had been dead for several weeks before the missing report was made. This discovery shifted the case from a missing person investigation to a homicide inquiry.
When questioned, the boy’s mother, Ashley Johnson, told police that she had left her son in Kendrick’s care while she was recovering from surgery in May 2025.
Alleged Confession and Details
According to police, Kendrick first claimed that the child died of natural causes. However, his story reportedly changed during questioning.
Investigators say he later admitted to physically assaulting the boy, including punching him and pushing him to the ground. He allegedly stated that the child died while he was in the shower.
Disturbing Actions After Death
The case became even more disturbing with details about what happened after the child’s death. Authorities allege that Kendrick kept the body inside the home until decomposition began.
He then reportedly moved the body into a freezer before later placing it in a suitcase and disposing of it in a field near train tracks. Investigators believe he later moved the remains again before they were finally found.
Charges Against Both Accused
Michael Kendrick is now facing multiple serious charges, including murder, involuntary manslaughter, and child endangerment. He also faces earlier charges related to evidence tampering and abuse of a corpse.
Ashley Johnson has also been charged with additional offences, including abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence, along with her earlier charge of obstructing justice.
Current Legal Status
Both individuals are currently in custody. Kendrick is being held without bond, while Johnson has been granted bail set at $25,000.
They are scheduled to appear in court on April 30, where further proceedings in the case will take place.
