An 8-year-old Virginia boy has been killed after being beaten to death while trying to defend his 12-year-old sister from a rape. The teenage assailant was detained and medically evaluated Friday.
Officials have identified the deceased boy as Martin Cobb while the family struggles to cope with the unthinkable tragedy. Police plan to charge the unnamed teen for both attacks that took place Thursday afternoon.
“He was a lovely little boy. He didn’t deserve this,” said Geraldine Pitchford, the children’s aunt. “I’m still trying to make sense of this senseless crime. I couldn’t fathom the thought of this ever happening.”
The incident reportedly occurred before 6:30 p.m. when the brother and sister were playing on train tracks behind the family’s home. The suspect approached the pair and attempted to sexually assault the girl, which prompted Cobb to fight off the attacker.
That’s when the suspect struck Cobb in the head with a brick. He died at the scene.
Cobb’s sister was recovering Friday at VCU Medical Center and was feeling “OK,” according to family members. A prayer vigil was held Friday night in honor of Cobb who is being remembered as a brave defender.
Photo credit: WWBT