Family seeks accountability after 6-year-old Dominique Moody’s death at east Charlotte home under investigation

What is known about the case

A family in Charlotte is publicly demanding accountability following the death of 6-year-old Dominique Moody, who was found dead on Dec. 16, 2025, at a residence in the 7600 block of Gwynne Hill Road in east Charlotte. The investigation is being handled by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Homicide Unit.

Court records and police updates tied to the case describe allegations of prolonged and severe mistreatment inside the home. The child’s relatives have said they tried to regain custody and have questioned how agencies charged with protecting children responded to concerns raised before the death.

Charges filed and the status of the criminal investigation

Authorities have charged three women in connection with Dominique’s death. Susan Lee Robinson was initially charged in late December 2025 with felony child abuse inflicting serious injury and misdemeanor child abuse tied to conditions inside the home. Police later announced that Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight were charged with first-degree murder on Feb. 4, 2026, as the investigation continued.

The case remains active, and the allegations outlined in warrants and court filings have not been tested in court. Prosecutors bear the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Questions around prior agency involvement and public records

A central issue raised by the family and community advocates is what was known by child welfare officials before Dominique died and what actions were taken. Mecklenburg County officials have declined to release key details about the timing and nature of prior social services contact with the household, arguing that disclosure could affect ongoing prosecutions and related investigations.

North Carolina law includes provisions that can require the release of certain child protective services information in child fatality cases once a person has been charged, with limited exceptions. The county’s position has prompted legal and public-records disputes over what must be disclosed and when.

Fire at the home during the investigation

The Gwynne Hill Road house has also been the scene of a separate criminal inquiry. A fire at the property was reported in late December 2025 while the residence was associated with the ongoing child death investigation. Investigators said the fire was intentionally set, adding another layer to a case already under intense scrutiny.

What happens next

• Criminal proceedings are expected to continue in Mecklenburg County courts, including hearings addressing evidence, bond conditions, and trial scheduling.

• Public-records challenges related to child welfare involvement are likely to remain contested while prosecutions are pending.

• Family members have continued organizing public events and online streams calling for answers from agencies and accountability through the courts.

If you or someone you know suspects child abuse or neglect, contact local law enforcement or Mecklenburg County’s child protective services. In an emergency, call 911.