Zoey Felix, a five-year-old girl, enjoyed typical childhood interests like mermaids and unicorns, sporting T-shirts with her favorite characters. However, her living conditions set her apart from other children her age.
Living in a rundown house without basic amenities like running water and electricity, Zoey often sought refuge with neighbors, asking them, “Can I stay?” to escape the distress at her home.
Neighbors in Topeka, Kansas, shared accounts of taking Zoey in and providing care for her. Shaniqua Bradley, a neighbor, mentioned, “It was always ‘Can I stay? Can I stay?’ When a child persistently seeks shelter, it raises concerns about their home environment.”
Authorities confirmed three visits to Zoey’s residence to evaluate her well-being due to reports of lacking utilities. Additionally, police responded to a domestic incident. Neighbor Sharon Williams reported, “I raised concerns about the neglect observed. Zoey appeared dirty, hungry, and relied on neighbors for food, but the situation was not taken seriously.”
Neighbors observed Zoey wandering the streets unaccompanied, seeking assistance. Sheryl, a neighbor, disclosed, “The community cared for Zoey; she was loved by everyone except her parents.”
The Kansas Department for Children received multiple reports concerning Zoey’s family situation after her mother, Holly Jo Felix, forced her daughters and husband out of their makeshift home. Tragically, Zoey’s father, Ezekiel, who had custody, relocated with Zoey and her sister to a homeless camp, where they encountered a man named Mickel Cherry, known as ‘Uncle’ by Zoey.
One day, Ezekiel left Zoey in Cherry’s care while he went to work, leading to a devastating turn of events. Zoey was found unconscious in a tent by her sister, with severe injuries that proved fatal despite efforts to save her. Medical examination revealed signs of a violent assault, including damage to her lower body.
Cherry, who confessed to the assault, was sentenced to 25 years each for murder and rape, to be served consecutively, with a possibility of parole after 50 years, avoiding the death penalty.
Neighbors fondly remembered Zoey as a spirited, inquisitive child who was dearly missed. Her tragic fate has left the community seeking answers about the circumstances leading to her untimely death.
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