UPDATE: A mother has been sentenced to 18 to 23 ½ years in prison for her role in the death of her 6-year-old daughter, Eva Bretz. Ashley Fagan, 33, allowed her boyfriend to brutally beat and strangle the child, resulting in catastrophic injuries that ultimately led to Eva’s death.
Authorities responded to a 911 call from the family home in Ohio on April 13, 2025. Upon arrival, police found Eva in critical condition and immediately began life-saving efforts. Despite their attempts, she was pronounced dead within six hours of being admitted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The autopsy revealed injuries consistent with severe physical abuse, including a severed liver, blunt force trauma, and ligature marks around her neck.
Fagan pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment. In court, she initially attempted to mislead investigators, claiming her daughter’s injuries were caused by a tree branch caught in her hoodie. However, surveillance footage disproved her story, prompting detectives to uncover text messages revealing discussions between Fagan and her boyfriend, Blake Hutchinson, about the child’s injuries dating back to October 2024.
In a heart-wrenching statement, Kevin Coles, Eva’s grandfather, expressed his anguish, saying, “The one person on this planet that should have had her best interest at heart did not take any steps to protect her.” The case deeply affected Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge Richard Brown, who visibly struggled as he imposed the sentence. He stated, “I cannot imagine taking a life or watching while someone else takes the life of a child, particularly your own child.”
The coroner’s report detailed that Eva likely suffered abuse for weeks or months before her death. Disturbingly, the report also indicated signs of sexual assault and the presence of fentanyl in her system, showcasing a tragic pattern of ongoing violence. Eva’s injuries included multiple fractures to her ribs and pelvis at various healing stages, clear indicators of prolonged abuse.
Police confirmed that Hutchinson, who was identified as the primary abuser, took his own life shortly before he was to be arrested in connection with Eva’s death. This heartbreaking case underscores the devastating consequences of child abuse and the urgent need for protective measures for vulnerable children.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, many are left questioning how such a horrific situation could unfold unchecked. The legal proceedings against Fagan have concluded, but the impacts of Eva’s death will resonate within the community for years to come.
This case highlights the critical importance of vigilance and intervention in cases of suspected child abuse. Authorities are urging anyone who suspects a child is in danger to report their concerns immediately to ensure that no child suffers in silence.
