LOGAN, OH – An Ohio mother was charged with murder in the death of her 10-month-old daughter, a toddler remembered for her bright smile and joyful spirit, whose life ended after a series of devastating injuries.
Ka’myla Somers, just shy of her first birthday, died in November 2022 after suffering catastrophic trauma. Following an extensive investigation, her mother, Daisha Somers, 27, now faces multiple charges, including murder and involuntary manslaughter.
Ka’myla arrived at a local hospital after being unresponsive for hours. Medical professionals found the child had endured seven skull fractures, bleeding in her stomach, blood in her urine, retinal hemorrhages, multiple strokes, and a prolonged cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to save her, she never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead days later.
When questioned, Daisha Somers told investigators that her daughter’s injuries resulted from falling out of a toddler bed. However, medical experts determined that Ka’myla’s wounds were inconsistent with a simple fall. The extent and nature of her injuries pointed to abuse, prompting law enforcement to launch a deeper investigation.
According to officials, neither Somers nor her boyfriend, Jerry Johnson, Ka’myla’s mother’s partner but not her father, contacted emergency services after discovering the unresponsive child. Instead, they transported her to the hospital themselves several hours after the incident occurred.
Authorities reported that both adults admitted to substance use on the night of Ka’myla’s injuries. Somers acknowledged smoking methamphetamine, while Johnson said he had consumed marijuana and alcohol. Investigators believe this may have delayed their response and clouded their judgment in seeking emergency assistance.
Ka’myla’s gentle demeanor and blossoming personality touched her family and friends. She was remembered as a baby who “lit up the room with her smile,” according to loved ones. Those closest to her shared stories of her enjoyment in watching cartoons and her excitement as she learned to walk.
In the weeks following the child’s death, police and prosecutors worked to assemble a thorough case. Initial charges of child endangerment against both Somers and Johnson were put on hold as prosecutors awaited the results of a full forensic and medical review. The complexity of the case, which hinged on expert testimony and analysis of extensive medical evidence, led to continued delays.
The Hocking County grand jury indicted Daisha Somers earlier this month. She was arrested in West Virginia and is currently held without bond as she awaits further court proceedings.
Johnson faces a charge of child endangerment but has not been charged with murder in connection with Ka’myla’s death. Local officials said their investigation relied heavily on input from medical experts and required additional time to ensure all aspects of the case were thoroughly examined.
Ka’myla’s family continues to mourn the loss. A GoFundMe campaign launched by her paternal aunt highlights the profound grief experienced by her loved ones, noting that her father, Charles, is “heartbroken” and unable to work while coming to terms with the tragedy.
Formal proceedings in the case are set to continue as the community remembers a young life taken far too soon.