10-Year-Old Texas Boy Charged With Murder After Stabbing Peer

Startling news comes out of Houston, Texas, where a 10-year-old boy has been charged with murder in connection with a stabbing that occurred nearly three months ago. According to KCENT, the victim, 13-year-old Riley DeArmas, was found with a stab wound after authorities responded to a location where a gathering had taken place. She was transported to the hospital but, unfortunately, later passed away.

Get our free mobile app

Why Did This Stabbing Take Place?

Authorities say the boy initially claimed he acted in self-defense. He alleged that he was protecting himself from the 13-year-old and a group of her friends, reportedly between 20 and 30 people who had come to the complex and started a fight. The boy was later arrested on April 22 in North Carolina. Police have not yet clarified why he was there or who may have taken him across state lines.

What Is The Law In Texas?

Under Texas law, 10 is the minimum age for criminal responsibility, meaning a child of that age can be charged with a crime such as murder. However, because the defendant is under 14, he cannot be charged as an adult. The victim’s mother says the loss of her daughter will leave a permanent void in her life, describing her as a source of strength. This remains an ongoing story, as authorities continue working to determine why the child was in North Carolina and when he will be returned to Harris County.