In Austin, Texas, a heartbreaking case has come to light. A 7-year-old girl was discovered trapped inside a small, dark closet. She was dirty, weak, and weighed just 29 pounds—far below a healthy weight for her age. For food, she was given only one corn dog and a small amount of water each day.
Mother Blames Her Older Children
Police say the girl was locked in the closet for weeks. Her mother, 33-year-old Virginia Gonzales, told investigators that her older children were responsible. She claimed they followed her orders to watch the girl and keep her confined. One of her sons told police that his mom had said to “clean the closet and throw her back in.”
Food in the House, But Not for Her
When officers entered the home, they found plenty of food in the fridge and pantry. The other children appeared healthy and well-fed. But the 7-year-old girl was hidden away with nothing. Gonzales said the child was punished for having bathroom accidents and making messes.
Doctors Say the Damage May Be Permanent
The girl was taken to a local hospital, where doctors confirmed she was severely malnourished. Her body had started to shut down, and her brain showed signs of shrinking—a condition called cerebral atrophy. Doctors are unsure if she will fully recover. She may face lifelong struggles with movement, speech, and learning.
Another Daughter Still Missing
During the investigation, police made another shocking discovery. One of Gonzales’s daughters, Ava Marie, has been missing since 2017. She was only 2 years old when she disappeared, and her mother never reported her missing. Now, Ava would be around 9. Police are actively searching for her and asking the public for any leads.
Gonzales Arrested, Children Removed from Home
Gonzales has been arrested and is currently in jail. In court, she admitted she did wrong but said she still wants to “fight for her kids.” All of her other children have been removed from the home and are now in protective care.
Community in Shock, Investigation Ongoing
The case has shocked neighbors and people across the city. How could something like this happen in a home filled with food and family? And what really happened to Ava?
Police say their investigation is still ongoing. They’re determined to get justice for the little girl who was locked away—and find the missing child before it’s too late.
