The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) has arrested a woman in connection with the death of a 3-year-old child in April.
The investigation began on April 25 after the child was transported to Brandon Regional Hospital with multiple inflicted injuries. The victim later died at the hospital.
During the investigation, detectives determined the child was in the care of Grace Wingate, 39, at the time of the injuries. According to HCSO, the medical examiner ruled the child's death a homicide.
"This is a heartbreaking and disturbing case. A child lost her life at the hands of the person entrusted to protect her," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release. "We will not tolerate violence against anyone in our community, especially innocent children, and we will work relentlessly with the State Attorney's Office to ensure she faces the maximum consequences the law allows."
Detectives obtained an arrest warrant on July 16 and arrested Wingate on charges of child neglect causing great bodily harm, aggravated child abuse and first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse.
The investigation remains active, and additional updates will be provided as they become available.