A tragic case has unfolded in Dayton, Ohio, as authorities reveal that seven-year-old Hershall Creachbaum—an autistic, non-verbal boy who uses a wheelchair—likely passed away weeks before his body was discovered, just two days after he was reported missing.
Hershall’s heartbreaking death has led to the arrest of two individuals connected to the case. On Saturday, July 12—the very day he was officially reported missing—his body was found, bringing a devastating end to the search.
Michael Kendrick now faces three charges, including tampering with evidence and abuse. Meanwhile, Ashley Johnson, Hershall’s mother, has been charged with obstruction of justice and failing to notify authorities of his death.
It is believed that 38-year-old Michael Kendrick placed a 911 call around 3:45 a.m. on the day Hershall was reported missing, claiming the boy had been kidnapped. Tragically, Hershall’s body was discovered later that same day.
At a press conference yesterday, Dayton Police Chief Kamran Afzal revealed chilling details about the case. Investigators now believe Hershall had been deceased for weeks before his body was found.
“In our line of work, sadly, we witness horrific acts far too often,” Chief Afzal told reporters. “But the cruelty inflicted on this child is beyond comprehension—it is truly evil.”
The investigation shifted to a homicide after evidence showed Hershall had not been seen for weeks following Kendrick’s initial call.
“This is heartbreaking,” Afzal continued. “In Dayton, tragedies are unfortunately common, but this was a vulnerable, non-verbal autistic boy—a child who deserved care and protection.”
He added with sorrow, “To think that he had been dead for so long and no one alerted us… instead, we get a call saying, ‘The child was kidnapped,’ not an honest plea for help. It’s as if the caller was only reaching out now to ease their conscience.”
It is believed that Hershall was known to the Children’s Services Bureau, although there was no active case at the time of his death. Tragically, Hershall’s older sister has since been placed in foster care under state custody.
While Hershall had previously lived with his grandmother, he was in the care of his mother when he disappeared.
Jason Miller
With over a decade of experience in digital journalism, Jason has reported on everything from global events to everyday heroes, always striving to inform, engage, and inspire. Known for his clear writing and relentless curiosity, he believes journalism should give a voice to the unheard and hold power to account.