Detroit, MI – A mother from Detroit has been arrested in Georgia after authorities allege she brutally murdered her 9-year-old son, Zemar King III, by smothering him, restraining his hands and feet, and then burying his body in a shallow grave behind their home. The horrifying discovery has sent shockwaves through the local community and left authorities grappling with one of the most disturbing child homicide cases in recent memory.

The suspect, 41-year-old Brandee Katrice Pierce, is now facing multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, felony murder, first-degree child abuse, evidence tampering, and concealing the death of an individual. Prosecutors allege that Pierce took extreme and calculated measures to cover up the crime, fleeing the state with her 3-year-old son and attempting to start a new life in Georgia after committing the heinous act.

The Chilling Discovery

Zemar’s remains were discovered on January 6, 2025, when the landlord of the property in Detroit’s east side was preparing the home for a new tenant. Investigators say the landlord was clearing debris in the backyard when he stumbled upon what appeared to be a shallow grave. Upon further inspection, he made the gruesome discovery of a small, decomposing body buried beneath a thin layer of dirt and leaves.

Authorities were immediately called to the scene, and forensic teams were dispatched to examine the remains. An autopsy later confirmed the body belonged to 9-year-old Zemar King III. The medical examiner determined that Zemar had been smothered to death before being bound and buried. His cause of death was ruled asphyxiation, and authorities noted that he had also sustained multiple injuries prior to his death.

Investigation Uncovers Disturbing Details

Detectives began piecing together the tragic sequence of events that led to Zemar’s murder. According to authorities, Pierce had been living in the home with her two sons, but neighbors reported that they had not seen Zemar for several weeks leading up to the discovery. Some residents recalled hearing disturbing sounds coming from the home, while others said Pierce often appeared agitated and withdrawn in the days before she vanished.

As the investigation deepened, evidence suggested that Pierce had killed her son weeks earlier and meticulously worked to cover up the crime. Investigators believe she wrapped Zemar’s body in fabric before binding his hands and feet, then dug a shallow grave in the backyard under the cover of darkness.

After disposing of her son’s body, Pierce fled to Georgia with her 3-year-old son in an attempt to evade authorities. She reportedly settled in a small town outside of Atlanta and maintained a low profile, avoiding interactions with locals. However, her past would soon catch up with her.

Arrest and Pending Extradition

Pierce was arrested in Georgia on unrelated charges, which eventually led authorities to connect her to the Detroit murder case. She was taken into custody and, after a routine fingerprint scan, law enforcement officials realized she was wanted in Michigan for the murder of her son.

Detroit police issued a warrant for her arrest, and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office is now working with Georgia authorities to expedite her extradition. Prosecutor Kym Worthy, who has handled numerous child abuse and homicide cases throughout her career, described the murder as “one of the most callous, heart-wrenching cases” she has ever encountered.

“This is beyond tragic. A 9-year-old boy, whose life was taken in such a cruel and calculated manner by the very person who was supposed to protect him,” Worthy stated. “We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served for Zemar.”

Community Outrage and Mourning

The news of Zemar’s death has sent ripples of grief and outrage throughout Detroit. Neighbors who knew the young boy described him as a bright and kind-hearted child who loved playing outdoors and had an infectious laugh. Many are struggling to comprehend how a mother could allegedly commit such an unspeakable act against her own child.

Community leaders and child advocacy groups have come forward to express their sorrow and frustration over the case. The Detroit Coalition for Child Safety released a statement emphasizing the importance of recognizing signs of child abuse and reporting concerns to the proper authorities.

“Cases like this remind us of the critical need for vigilance when it comes to child welfare,” said the coalition’s director, Lisa Whitmore. “If anyone suspects a child is in danger, they must speak up before it’s too late.”

A candlelight vigil has been planned in honor of Zemar King III, where friends, family, and community members will gather to pay their respects and demand justice for the young victim. Local organizations are also working to establish a memorial fund in Zemar’s name to support other children at risk of abuse and neglect.

Legal Proceedings and What’s Next

Brandee Katrice Pierce remains in custody in Georgia as she awaits extradition to Michigan. Once she arrives, she will be formally arraigned on the multiple felony charges against her.

Legal experts anticipate that prosecutors will pursue the harshest penalties available under Michigan law, given the severity of the crime. If convicted of first-degree murder, Pierce faces life in prison without the possibility of parole. Additional charges, including child abuse and evidence tampering, could further lengthen her sentence.

In the meantime, authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of Pierce’s surviving 3-year-old son, who has been placed in the care of child protective services. Social workers are assessing the child’s condition and providing necessary support as he copes with the loss of his older brother.

Final Thoughts

The murder of Zemar King III is a devastating reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in abusive households. It has reignited discussions about the importance of community awareness, stronger protective measures for at-risk children, and harsher penalties for those who harm the most innocent among us.

As the case moves forward, the Detroit community stands united in seeking justice for Zemar. Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the case to come forward, as investigators continue to piece together the full scope of events leading to the tragic loss of a young life.

For now, family, friends, and the broader community mourn the senseless death of a child whose bright future was stolen far too soon. And as the legal system takes its course, one undeniable truth remains: Zemar King III deserved better.