On Feb 15, 2011 David Steven Golub, of Highland, Indiania was babysitting Derek, his girlfriend’s son, and Derek’s eight-month-old brother. Police and ambulances arrived at the residence and found Derek lying naked on the living room floor gasping for air. Derek was declared brain dead and officially pronounced dead about 24 hours later, according to the affidavit.
Preliminary indications are that Derek suffered from bilateral multi-layered retinal hemorrhages and cerebral hemorrhaging; medical personal determined the death was result of child abuse.
Golub told police he did not call 911 immediately because he was scared. Several times during the interview Golub reffered to Derek as the “f—in’ kid,” the mother admitted to smoking marijuana with Golub (who she knew was a heroin user) the day Derek died.
The state of Indiana wants to release Sammy back into her care with full custody.
Coming soon you’ll find more info about Derek’s brief but wonderful life here, in the mean time here are some links in relation to his death:
Man initially charged with neglect, charges then were upgraded (rightfully so considering he was spotted by neighbors with Derek outside and didn’t call 911) to murder.
A gift of hope (link)
Your son has offered the gift of hope through organ donation…I am writing to share some information about the people whose lives were saved through your son’s selfless gift.
A six-year-old girl from Massachusetts received your son’s liver. She was fortunate enough to wait only one week for her gift of hope…
A 41-year-old man from Illinois received the kidneys. He waited over five years for his gift of hope.