After police entered his home following reports of a deceased youth, 15-year-old Alexandru Radita was found dead in his bed “amidst conditions that police say were horrific.” Alexandru, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age, died of bacterial sepsis resulting from neglect, starvation, and complications resulting from his medical condition. While Alexandru’s death was preventable, police determined that religious beliefs did not play a role. Alexandru was homeschooled, and neighbors said they rarely saw the boy outside. Alexandru’s seven siblings were healthy and well cared for.

Alexandru’s parents, Emil and Rodica Radita, were charged with first degree murder.

Date: May 7, 2013
Location: Calgary, Canada