High Point, N.C. — A heartbreaking case has emerged from High Point following the death of a 13-year-old girl found unresponsive in her home. The incident has raised questions about law enforcement’s response and the circumstances leading to her untimely death. Authorities arrested her mother, Kymberli Bowden, more than two weeks later on charges of felony child abuse and concealing a death.
According to police records reviewed, officers received multiple calls about the Bowden home prior to the discovery of the girl’s body on October 13. Four of these calls explicitly expressed concerns for the well-being of Bowden’s children. On October 4, a woman at the residence requested police assistance but later stated she was fine and did not want officers to respond. Later that day, a concerned caller reported hearing no signs of the children, which was described as unusual.
On the day of the tragedy, a social worker for a medically fragile child reached out to law enforcement. The caseworker reported issues with Bowden canceling appointments and noted that the child had not been seen since May. Although officers visited the home, they received no response and recommended the caseworker contact the Department of Social Services.
Afterward, a family friend peered through a window and discovered the girl’s lifeless body inside. Emergency responders forced entry into the home, where they found the 13-year-old girl deceased.
Court documents allege that Bowden neglected to provide necessary food and medical care for her child, contributing to the girl’s demise. Investigators reported that the residence was filled with debris and spoiled food. Bowden’s twin son was found in a malnourished state but alive.
Records indicate that Bowden, a certified nursing assistant, was employed to provide in-home care for her children. She remains incarcerated with a bond set at $1 million and could face a minimum of 18 years behind bars if convicted. The District Attorney has indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming.
As the community grapples with the tragedy, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services confirmed it is reviewing cases involving child fatalities associated with parental neglect. Although precise details about previous complaints concerning Bowden were not disclosed, the agency expressed condolences for the family and community impacted by the girl’s death.
Neighbors described noticeable changes in Bowden’s behavior following the death of her husband a few years ago. Several residents recounted that the children stopped playing outdoors, and Bowden seemed increasingly withdrawn and gloomy. Despite their concerns, many did not report an uptick in police activity leading to the tragic event.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, aiming to shed light on the failures that allowed this tragedy to occur.