Baby Died Eating Drywall: Parents Arrested

A two-year-old boy in Indiana died from severe malnutrition and dehydration, leading to his parents' arrest on murder and child neglect charges. Investigators found that Erik Reichard had resorted to eating drywall and diaper scraps before his death on March 31, 2026. His autopsy revealed a "gel-like substance" and paint flakes in his colon.

Authorities were called to the home of Trevor Reichard-Hayes, 39, and Katherine Carter, 31, after the couple reported their son had stopped breathing. They admitted to last seeing Erik alive nearly 14 hours before seeking help. The child was described as extremely thin, weighing only 15 pounds, and covered in sores.

Upon investigating the residence, officers discovered two other children living in unsanitary conditions, characterized by feces, debris, and insects. These children were removed by the Indiana Department of Child Services, with one requiring hospital treatment for severe malnutrition and dehydration. The parents' room was noted as being clean, in contrast to the rest of the home.