Teen Body Found After Month in Taped-Shut Room

LaRonda Anne Mitchell was arrested on Tuesday, May 5, after police discovered the body of a teenage girl in her Ohio home. The victim, identified as 16-year-old Donnamalay Davis, was found in a bedroom that had been taped shut. Authorities stated the room was sealed to contain a smell, and Davis had been deceased for at least one month.

Investigators responded to the residence for a welfare check prompted by a citizen's concern. Someone at the home had reportedly said Davis was sick and needed divine healing. Upon arrival, officers noted a "standoffish" demeanor from the woman who answered the door. After learning a bedroom door was taped shut, officers entered and found the deceased teenager.

Mitchell faces multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter, abduction, and abuse of a corpse. The incident appears to be connected to beliefs in religious healing, with individuals at the home allegedly telling police the death was necessary for the teen to "heal." Two other children residing in the home were taken into custody by authorities following the discovery. Mitchell is currently held on a $500,000 bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 27. The Mahoning County Coroner's Office has not yet released the cause or manner of Davis' death as the investigation continues.