Pennsylvania man charged with murder of his 9-year-old son 

Azuree was discovered dead on May 4 in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. The boy had was strangled and found nude in a wooded area behind his home. Azuree was found laying in the mud covered by a foam cooler and lawn furniture. The boy’s pajamas were found hanging in branches close by. Azuree mother, 29-year-old Luella Elien, has been also arrested in connection with her son’s death. She has been charged with aggravated assault of a victim under 13, child endangerment and hindering the apprehension or prosecution of another person.

Charles’ DNA was allegedly found on a shovel located in a garbage nearby and the boy’s red bike was also found nearby. Other children in Azuree’s neighborhood told police that they often heard screaming coming from the home, including on the morning Azuree was found dead. Around 2:30 a.m., a neighborhood boy said he heard Azuree yell, “No, no, no, I’m sorry!”

Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli said at a press conference that the incident has hurt the community.

“This horrific tragedy has rocked the New Kensington community,” she said. “The trauma that has affected us all pales in comparison to what Azuree no doubt experienced.”

Charles is also charged with unlawful restraint of a minor by a parent, strangulation, concealing the death of a child and tampering with physical evidence. Elien was granted bond in the amount of $250,000. Charles was not granted bail.

“I just hope justice is done for this little kid because this little kid didn’t deserve this,” said Osie Taylor, a neighbor who found Azuree’s body. Charles and Elien are scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 12.

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