Milwaukee Boy’s Death Ruled Homicide; Mother Charged With Neglect After Graphic Injury Findings
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — A devastating child death investigation is unfolding in Milwaukee, where 3-year-old Da’Quarius Berry was found unresponsive and later died from severe internal injuries that authorities say were caused by “non-accidental trauma.” His mother, 34-year-old Zaquitta Joiner-Murphy, is now charged with child neglect, and investigators have ruled the boy’s death a homicide.
Child Found Unresponsive With Fatal Abdominal Injuries
On November 6, first responders were called to a home near 29th and Concordia, where the toddler was discovered unresponsive on the floor. He was rushed to Children’s Wisconsin, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead.
A search warrant obtained by investigators revealed that the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office found extensive internal injuries consistent with deliberate harm.
The warrant noted:
“Injuries were consistent with non-accidental trauma.”
Doctors discovered a large abdominal hemorrhage, which experts said could not have happened accidentally.
Mother Appears in Court as Judge Calls Case “Extremely Serious”
Zaquitta Joiner-Murphy appeared in court on November 15, where a commissioner set her bond at $50,000. Authorities say she was responsible for the child at the time but had left him with her boyfriend while taking her other children to school.
When she returned home, she told investigators she found Berry foaming at the mouth and unresponsive. The boyfriend was still present when she called 911.
During the hearing, the court commissioner described the case starkly:
“I’m confronted by an extremely serious case involving the death of a child as a result of a significant injury… substantial internal bleeding.”
Warrant Notes “Complete and Utter Disregard for Human Life”
The search warrant further described the circumstances of the child’s death as showing:
“Complete and utter disregard for human life.”
While Joiner-Murphy is charged with child neglect, police have not yet announced whether additional charges — or suspects — may follow as the investigation continues. Detectives are reviewing forensic evidence and conducting interviews to determine exactly how the fatal injuries occurred.
Family Launches Fundraiser to Help Cover Burial Expenses
In response to the tragedy, family members created a fundraiser to help cover Da’Quarius Berry’s funeral and burial costs. His aunt is leading the effort, describing the deep pain the family is experiencing as they try to process the loss of the young child.
Berry’s death has sent shockwaves through Milwaukee, raising questions about what happened inside the home and whether more individuals may be held accountable.
As investigators work to uncover the full truth behind this heartbreaking case, Milwaukee residents are urged to stay informed and support efforts that protect vulnerable children across the community. For continuing updates on major crime investigations and local safety news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.