A Washington, D.C., mother is facing a first-degree felony murder charge after her 13-month-old daughter was found dead in a Southeast apartment earlier this year and later ruled a homicide from dehydration and malnourishment, investigators say.
The girl, identified by police as 13-month-old Mazouri Jones, died in January. In April 2026, the city's chief medical examiner determined her cause of death was dehydration and malnourishment and classified the case as homicide. On June 3, authorities arrested the child's mother, 25-year-old Valencia Duke, who is now charged in connection with her daughter's death.
Police Say Call Led Officers to Southern Avenue Apartment
On January 18, officers responded to the 4700 block of Southern Avenue for a report of an unconscious child. Inside the apartment, they found a 13-month-old girl and a 13-month-old boy. D.C. Fire and EMS pronounced the girl dead at the scene and took the boy to a hospital.
In April, the chief medical examiner ruled the girl's death a homicide caused by dehydration and malnourishment. On June 3, members of the Capitol Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested Duke, who is now charged in the case, according to FOX 5 DC.
What the Charge Means Under D.C. Law
Authorities charged Duke with first-degree felony murder, a homicide classification that can apply when a death results from culpable neglect or from the commission of certain felonies. In the District of Columbia, first-degree murder is a Class A offense that carries potential penalties ranging from a minimum of 30 years to life imprisonment without release. For an overview of the statute and penalties, see FindLaw.
Investigation Ongoing; Police Ask for Tips
The Metropolitan Police Department says the investigation is still active as detectives continue to gather evidence. Anyone with information has been asked to contact police, according to local reporting. FOX 5 DC reported that the department is handling the case.
