KCTV5 Investigates: Disturbing Details Emerge in Zoey Felix Murder Case
KANSAS CITY, MO – A year after the tragic murder of 5-year-old Zoey Felix, a guilty plea on Friday shed light on the horrifying circumstances surrounding her death. The plea hearing revealed disturbing details about the young girl’s living conditions and the brutal nature of her murder.
Zoey was found dead in October 2023, and subsequent investigations by KCTV5 revealed a history of neglect and abuse. Neighbors had repeatedly reported concerns about her well-being to authorities, including 23 calls to the police and nine reports to the Division of Children and Families (DCF). Despite multiple visits to the home, DCF investigators were unable to gain entry.
Mickel Cherry, 25, was charged with capital murder, first-degree murder, and rape in connection with Zoey’s death. The plea hearing detailed how the young girl was living in a homeless encampment with her father, sister, and Cherry. While her father was at work, Cherry was left to care for Zoey. Tragically, Cherry raped and suffocated the child with a pillow inside a tent.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly described Zoey’s death as an “unacceptable tragedy.” The case has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for increased child protection measures.