Dayton, Ohio — A heartbreaking case out of Dayton has taken a more serious turn after authorities filed additional charges against a mother and her boyfriend in connection with the death of a 7-year-old boy with disabilities.
According to the Dayton Police Department, 39-year-old Michael Kendrick and 36-year-old Ashley Johnson were initially arrested in July 2025 after the child, Hershall Creachbaum, was reported missing. Investigators now say the boy was never missing — and had likely been dead for weeks before the report was made.
What Happened
The case began on July 12, 2025, when Kendrick called 911, claiming that Hershall had disappeared around 3:30 a.m. The child, who had nonverbal autism and relied on a wheelchair, was considered especially vulnerable. However, police quickly grew suspicious after locating his wheelchair and finding inconsistencies in the story.
Within hours of the report, authorities discovered the boy’s remains. Investigators later revealed that evidence suggested Hershall had died well before the missing person call was made.
Allegations Against the Boyfriend
Police say Kendrick initially told officers the child died of natural causes. However, his account later changed during questioning. According to investigators, he admitted to physically assaulting the boy — punching him and pushing him to the ground, causing severe injuries.
Kendrick allegedly told police that the child died while he was in the shower. In a deeply disturbing revelation, authorities say he kept the boy’s body inside the home for an extended period “until he started to smell.”
Investigators allege that Kendrick then moved the body to a freezer, later placing it in a suitcase and disposing of it in a grassy area near train tracks before eventually relocating the remains again.
He now faces multiple serious charges, including murder, involuntary manslaughter, and child endangerment, in addition to earlier charges related to abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence.
Mother Also Facing Additional Charges
Ashley Johnson, the child’s mother, told police she had left Hershall in Kendrick’s care while she was hospitalized for surgery in May 2025. Authorities allege she later obstructed the investigation.
She has now been indicted on additional charges, including abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence, along with her original obstruction charge.
Current Status
Both suspects are being held at the Montgomery County Jail. Kendrick is being held without bond, while Johnson’s bond has been set at $25,000.
They are scheduled to appear in court on April 30 as the case moves forward.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials say the investigation remains active, and more details could emerge as the legal process continues. The case has shocked the local community, raising serious concerns about child safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Authorities have not released further information at this time, but emphasize that justice for the child remains the top priority.
