by St. Louis, Mo. – A tragic case in Missouri has left a family grieving after a 2-year-old boy, Bre’Yon Wells, allegedly suffered severe abuse and later died while in the care of a man his mother trusted. Authorities reported that the child was left with 21-year-old Nicco Cotton on Oct. 27, while his mother, Bianca Wells, worked a 10-hour shift.
Circumstances Surrounding the Incident
Police received a call about an unresponsive child at a second location several miles away later that day. Bre’Yon was immediately transported to a St. Louis hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Court documents obtained by KMOV, KSDK, and the Kansas City Star indicated that the toddler had suffered multiple internal injuries, asphyxial trauma, and a lacerated liver, along with injuries consistent with a sexual assault.
“My baby was so happy. He was so loving. He loved everybody and everything,” Wells told KMOV. “I thought that’s what he was doing.” Bre’Yon’s godmother, Latoya Johnston, described him as “the most adorable, sweet little thing,” adding that the family “just broke down” over the loss.
Allegations Against Nicco Cotton
Investigators said Nicco Cotton admitted to sexually assaulting, biting, and strangling the toddler before transporting him to the second location, according to court documents. Cotton turned himself in on Oct. 30 and is currently being held without bond.
Bre’Yon’s death, officials stated, was directly caused by the multiple injuries sustained during the assault, according to court filings reviewed by the Kansas City Star.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Cotton faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Second-degree murder
- Forcible sodomy
- Statutory sodomy
- Abuse of a child resulting in death
No court date has been scheduled yet, but authorities continue to pursue the case as the community mourns the loss.
Family Reaction
Wells shared her anguish over the incident, saying, “When I can look him in his eyes and know that he’s going to sit behind a cell for the rest of his life, I’ll breathe. That’s the worst part. I felt like my baby was safe, he was OK and looked after, and he wasn’t. I love you, Doodie. I’m sorry.”
The devastating case highlights the critical need for vigilance when leaving children in the care of others, even those deemed trustworthy.
Community members: If you have information regarding child safety or potential abuse, contact your local authorities immediately. Share tips or resources in the comments to help keep children safe and informed.
