BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor

A 21-year-old man was arrested and charged with the murder of his girlfriend’s infant son.  Damarcus Kirkland-Williams is being held at the jail without bond.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, late Wednesday night, 13-month-old Ezekiel Mathis was transported to University Community Hospital after Kirkland-Williams reportedly found him unresponsive. The child was pronounced dead.

During the police investigation, Kirkland-Williams reportedly told police that he was angry with the child’s mother and intended to throw him onto the bed.

However, the child’s stomach struck the dresser. The incident took place at an apartment in the 13700 block of N. 21st Street.

Ezekiel Mathis died Wednesday from Blunt Impact Trauma. He is shown with his mother, Swazikki Davis during happier times.

Kirkland-Williams further told police that he placed the child in the bed on his stomach. “As the victim would not stop crying, the defendant (Kirkland- Williams) intentionally struck him twice on his back,” police said.

Kirkland-Williams told police that the infant’s mother was not at home when the incident took place.

The child reportedly had multiple bruises on his face and body. An autopsy revealed that the child died of blunt impact trauma to the head and body with lacerations of the liver and spleen.

Kirkland-Williams was arrested early Thursday morning and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse.

Family Needs Help With Funeral
Ms. Davis said the family is in need of help with his funeral. She has made arrangements to hold the funeral on Saturday, May 28th, at 11 a.m., at Ministry of Spirit & Truth, 1417 E. Holland, where she has been a member for the past 8 years.

Aikens Funeral Home is in charge of handling arrangements.

“We need help and anyone who can help can contact me at (813) 384-0530,” Ms. Davis stated.