Columbus, Jan 31, 2025 — Laronda Mims, 32, has been formally charged following the tragic death of her three-year-old son, Emmanuel, after a devastating accident at their home in Franklin County, Ohio. The heartbreaking incident unfolded on the morning of January 6, 2025, when Mims urgently dialed 911, fearing her child was in critical condition.
In a desperate plea for help just before 8 a.m., Mims reported that Emmanuel had allegedly pulled hot water onto himself from the stove. “My baby grabbed some hot water off the stove and I don’t know if he’s conscious,” Mims said during the call, according to a transcript obtained by ABC 6.
The dispatcher urgently responded, “Is he breathing?” to which Mims replied, “I’m not sure.” After urging her to check, she added, “Yea, I am trying to check. I don’t know. It looks like he’s making a noise, but I don’t know for sure.”
Emergency responders arrived swiftly to a harrowing scene. Despite the rapid intervention and Emmanuel being rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital for life-saving measures, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival, as reported by the Columbus Dispatch.
Following Emmanuel’s death, an investigation revealed a troubling history of domestic issues within the household. ABC 6 reported that prior to the fatal accident, police had responded to multiple calls related to domestic disputes, violence, and even reports involving weapons at the residence. Additionally, a missing person report had been filed, heightening concerns about the family’s stability.
Franklin County Children’s Services intervened and took custody of two other children residing in the same apartment, ensuring their safety amid the ongoing investigation. The agency confirmed to ABC 6 that these children were placed under protective custody to prevent further harm.
A Franklin County grand jury indicted Mims on charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering the welfare of her children. Prosecutors issued a warrant for her arrest, citing that Mims posed a “substantial risk to the health or safety of the child by violating a duty of care, protection or support,” according to court records.
In the wake of the tragedy, Brenda Mims, Laronda’s sister, launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with Emmanuel’s final expenses. On the fundraiser page, Laronda wrote, “Hello my name is Laronda Mims today I lost my son Emmanuel Mims age 3. He was a happy loving kid. I didn’t have no life insurance. I need help to bring him back to Detroit from Ohio to bury him. If y’all can please help out, anything will do to bring my baby back.”
The community has rallied around the family, expressing sorrow and support through various social media platforms and local outreach efforts. However, the legal proceedings against Mims mark a somber chapter in a case that has already deeply affected many lives.
As the court prepares for her sentencing, legal experts emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying issues that contributed to this tragedy. The case highlights the critical need for effective intervention and support systems for families facing domestic challenges.
Emmanuel’s untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of life and the profound impact of domestic environments on child safety and well-being. The community continues to seek answers and support for the affected family as the legal process unfolds.