Lima, Montana – A 48-year-old grandfather has been charged with negligent homicide after his 3-year-old grandson, who was born with spina bifida, was found dead inside the family’s home. The arrest comes three months after the child’s mother was also taken into custody in connection with the boy’s death.
Authorities say the case has raised serious concerns about child neglect, medical care, and living conditions inside the residence.
Incident Overview
The grandfather, Christopher Michael Cox, 48, has been charged with felony negligent homicide and misdemeanor child endangerment following the death of his grandson in Lima, Montana.
Investigators allege Cox failed to provide basic necessities and necessary medical care required to sustain the child’s life. The boy was discovered deceased in an upstairs room of the family’s home.
According to court documents filed on January 27, a Dillon physician confirmed the child had been born with spina bifida, a serious congenital condition that left him immobile.
Spina bifida is a neural tube defect in which the spine and spinal cord do not form properly during early development, often resulting in lifelong physical limitations and the need for consistent medical supervision.
Timeline of Events
The case first drew attention in October 2025, when the child’s mother, Nicole Boyer, contacted authorities to report that her son had died after being ill for months.
When law enforcement officers arrived at the residence, they reportedly detected the odor of decomposing remains. Emergency medical personnel later found the child in an upstairs area of the home.
The boy was discovered on top of a pile of laundry, bedsheets, and trash near a mattress. He was covered with a sweatshirt and was described in court documents as being in an “advanced state of decomposition.”
Cox’s arrest occurred approximately three months after Boyer was taken into custody.
Details From Court Documents
Court records describe the home as “squalid and unsanitary.” Authorities noted floors covered in trash, rotten food, animal urine, and feces throughout the residence.
Other young children living in the home reportedly told investigators they frequently heard the boy crying. They said they believed he had died when they stopped hearing his cries.
Police allege that Cox contributed to the child’s death by failing to provide necessary care and attention, particularly given the boy’s medical condition and immobility.
Boyer, meanwhile, allegedly told officers at the time of her arrest:
“Just take me to jail.”
She later admitted during questioning that her son became sick with a fever over the summer. Boyer reportedly said she believed the illness was related to teething and acknowledged that she became overwhelmed, eventually stopping care in September 2025.
“I believe I should have done more. My lack of not paying attention and prioritizing other things over him led to him dying.”
Charges and Legal Status
Christopher Michael Cox now faces:
- Felony negligent homicide
- Misdemeanor child endangerment
The child’s mother, Nicole Boyer, was previously arrested on one charge of deliberate homicide and remains held at Beaverhead County Jail.
It remains unclear whether either Cox or Boyer has retained legal counsel or entered formal pleas.
Key Facts in the Case
- Child: 3-year-old boy
- Medical condition: Spina bifida
- Location: Lima, Montana
- Court filing date: January 27
- Grandfather: Christopher Michael Cox, 48
- Charges against Cox: Felony negligent homicide, misdemeanor child endangerment
- Mother: Nicole Boyer
- Mother’s charge: Deliberate homicide
- Arrest of mother: October 2025
Additional Context: Vulnerable Children and Care Responsibilities
Children born with severe medical conditions such as spina bifida often require consistent medical oversight, hygiene management, and daily supervision. Failure to provide such care can quickly lead to serious health complications.
Law enforcement officials emphasize that caregivers are legally obligated to ensure vulnerable minors receive proper nutrition, hygiene, medical attention, and safe living environments. Cases involving unsanitary conditions and prolonged neglect frequently result in severe criminal charges.
Child welfare agencies encourage families facing overwhelming caregiving challenges to seek medical, social, or community support resources before situations escalate.
Conclusion
The death of the 3-year-old boy in Lima, Montana has resulted in criminal charges against both his mother and grandfather. As the legal proceedings move forward, the case highlights the severe consequences of alleged neglect involving medically fragile children.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may emerge as court proceedings continue.
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