A tragic incident has resulted in the death of a 2-year-old child, reportedly due to abuse by his stepfather. A 26-year-old individual, Hein Lwin, is currently confronting serious allegations, including first-degree murder and child abuse.
At approximately 4 p.m. on October 24, a 911 call was placed to the Peoria Police Department by Lwin, who reported that his stepson, Gabriel, had something “caught on his neck” and noted a red mark on the area. Lwin further noted that a “rope” was found around the victim’s neck, and he was observed “making noises” and shaking.
Upon arrival, officers noted that the child displayed noticeable red marks on his neck and was conscious yet unresponsive. A local hospital received him after he sustained severe injuries that could be fatal.
Lwin reported that he had laid the victim down for a nap before heading to the gym for about 30 to 40 minutes. He reported that upon his return, he discovered the child lying on the ground beside a belt, prompting him to call his wife and subsequently the police.
Lwin was apprehended and gave significantly contrasting details to law enforcement during his post-Miranda questioning.
Lwin was the sole individual responsible for looking after Gabriel on the day of the event. He expressed that he felt upset after a counseling session, which resulted in him directing his frustrations towards the child. Lwin led the victim to a splash pad, during which he repeatedly hit Gabriel on the head, resulting in the child crying. During his time at the splash pad, Gabriel experienced several falls, resulting in noticeable injuries to his head. As Lwin made his way home, he persisted in hitting the child.
Upon returning home, Lwin mentioned that he was getting Gabriel ready for a nap, and that they had engaged in some playful roughhousing before showing how he lifted the child by the back of his shirt, exerting pressure on his neck.