Boy, 4, Found Dead in Closet; Parents Charged

In Indianapolis, Indiana, a 4-year-old boy with special needs was found deceased in a closet under basement stairs. The child, identified as Malachi Lovely, was discovered unresponsive by police on March 23, 2026. His mother, Angel Lovely, was charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent resulting in death.

Her boyfriend, Nicholas Bergdoll, faces two counts of neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury. Court documents reveal Malachi was found with blood on his mouth and clothing. His mother informed officers that he had cerebral palsy and could not speak.

Following the discovery, Malachi was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead. Prosecutors allege the couple contributed to the child's poor health and failed to seek adequate medical attention. Siblings reportedly told detectives that Malachi was often kept in the closet and not cared for properly.