Watch CBS News

Mom Charged With Killing 4-Year-Old Son

ST. PETERSBURG (CBSMiami/AP) — A mother has been charged with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of her 4-year-old son.

St. Petersburg police say Tasha Trotter has not given a statement and it's unclear why she allegedly killed her son.

Authorities responded to an apartment building Friday night and found Joseph Artis outside with multiple stab wounds. The boy was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The boy had been staying with his grandmother, who had legal custody.

Trotter had visitation rights and stopped by the apartment Friday night. At some point, police say she grabbed a knife from the kitchen and began stabbing the boy.

Officials say Trotter has a history of mental health issues. She was taken to Pinellas County Jail. It's unclear if she has retained an attorney.

TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.