Father Charged in Daughter's Brutal Death

In Smyrna, Delaware, a father, Badara Kone, faces murder charges in connection with the death of his 10-year-old daughter, Fatima Kone. Authorities were called to the family's home on May 28, where Fatima was discovered deceased in her bedroom. The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit alleges that Badara assaulted Fatima with a leather belt on May 27, inflicting severe injuries.

Following the alleged assault, Fatima fell and hit her head, and her siblings moved her to her bedroom. Investigators later learned that 9-1-1 was not immediately called. During the investigation, Fatima's brothers, aged 11 and 15, were evaluated and detectives gathered evidence indicating continuous physical abuse.

The Delaware Division of Forensic Science ruled Fatima's death a homicide due to multiple blunt-force injuries. Badara Kone was subsequently charged with murder by abuse or neglect and is currently in custody on a $180,000 cash bond. He had previously been arrested on charges of continuous child abuse and fourth-degree child abuse.