JANESVILLE, WI – An 8-year-old girl’s life was cut tragically short in March, leaving her family and community reeling as her older adopted brother faces trial in connection with her death.
Authorities were alerted to the child’s disappearance on March 9, when her father returned home after running errands and could not locate her. When pressed about her whereabouts, the girl’s older brother, Dayveon Lathrop, allegedly responded with a chilling admission, prompting the family to call for help.
Police responded to the home and soon discovered the girl’s body hidden inside a plastic tote in the laundry room. According to investigators, she had been stabbed multiple times and concealed after her death. Officers searching the residence also located two knives in a shower before discovering the child.
The circumstances have left lingering shockwaves in Janesville, where neighbors and loved ones are struggling to come to terms with the brutal loss of a child remembered as kind and energetic. While details surrounding what led to her slaying remain under investigation, officials say the girl and Lathrop—who had been alone together while their father was away—were heard arguing earlier that afternoon.
Following his arrest, Lathrop, 21, reportedly told investigators he could not remember what happened, asserting that he had been drinking alcohol and had smoked marijuana before the incident. He faces charges of first-degree intentional homicide and hiding a corpse.
The case has faced repeated delays as the court addressed Lathrop’s mental fitness to stand trial. At an initial hearing, questions were raised about his competency, leading to a series of evaluations. In May, he was initially deemed competent; however, a subsequent court assessment determined he was not fit to participate in his defense, and Lathrop was committed to a mental health facility.
After several months of treatment, another hearing was held earlier this week to reevaluate his condition. The court this time found him competent, allowing proceedings to resume. A jury trial is now scheduled for July 2026.
Lathrop remains in custody at the Rock County Jail as he awaits further court appearances, with another date set for May 2026. No trial date has yet been finalized as the case continues to progress through the legal system.
Community members have left flowers and notes outside the family’s residence, paying tribute to the vibrant child whose life ended far too soon. Meanwhile, family and friends are focused on seeking justice and finding support as they mourn her passing.