A 29-year-old Brandon woman is facing a first-degree murder charge after detectives concluded that the injuries that killed a three-year-old child happened while the toddler was in her care. The child was taken to Brandon Regional Hospital on April 25 with severe injuries and later died. The Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death a homicide.
Arrest and charges
Hillsborough County detectives obtained a warrant and arrested Grace Wingate last Thursday according to the Tampa Free Press. Wingate is charged with Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Aggravated Child Abuse, aggravated child abuse, and child neglect with great bodily harm. Sheriff Chad Chronister called the case “heartbreaking” and said deputies will work with the State Attorney’s Office to seek the maximum consequences allowed under the law, according to the sheriff’s office.
Booking records
According to Recently Booked, Wingate was booked into the Hillsborough County jail on July 16. The public entry lists the same three counts, including the first-degree murder charge, and identifies the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office as the arresting agency.
Medical examiner's finding
Investigators say the child arrived at Brandon Regional Hospital on April 25 with multiple injuries and later died. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined the death was a homicide, as reported by the Tampa Free Press. Sheriff’s officials said the injuries were determined to have occurred while the child was in Wingate’s care and that the investigation remains active.
Legal stakes under Florida law
Under Florida law, a killing that happens while someone is engaged in aggravated child abuse is classified as murder in the first degree and “constitutes a capital felony,” punishable as provided in state law, according to Florida Statutes, section 782.04. The statute also outlines the procedure prosecutors must follow if they intend to seek the death penalty, including a requirement that they file notice within 45 days of arraignment.
What’s next
Sheriff’s officials say the investigation is ongoing and that they will continue working with the State Attorney’s Office as the case develops. Wingate remains in custody, and upcoming hearings or filings will be reflected in Hillsborough County’s public court records as the case moves forward.
