ARAYIAH HUDSON

A 36-year-old
Tampa mother has been arrested and charged with murder. She is accused of killing her son.

According to Tampa police Ms. Arayiah Hudson has been charged in the murder of her son, Joseph Hudson.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said, “This is a heinous crime. Every child deserves to feel safe in their own home and especially with their own mother.

“The Tampa Police Department is committed to bringing justice for Joseph and ensuring the safety of all children in our community.”

On June 29th, 2024, at 4:37 a. m., Tampa Police officers responded to a 9-1-1 call at a home in the 8400 block of N. 15th St. The caller, Joseph’s mother, Arayiah Hudson, reported that her son was unresponsive. Officers arrived within minutes and provided CPR. Tragically, Joseph was later pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital.

According to initial reports from Hudson, Joseph began coughing and having difficulty breathing after eating potato chips and drinking water. However, the investigation quickly shifted when detectives found evidence revealing a potential history of abuse.

 A medical examination of Joseph’s body found numerous injuries, including bruises, abrasions, and internal bleeding. The autopsy concluded the cause of death to be blunt force trauma to the head and torso. Further investigation revealed that Hudson attempted to conceal the abuse by claiming to discipline Joseph and using tinted makeup to cover bruises around his eyes.

On July 1, 2024, just before 7:30 p. m., Hudson was arrested at her home and charged with first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse. She was transported to Orient Road Jail.

Joseph’s siblings were united with their biological fathers, who did not reside at the home.