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TWO RIVERS, Wis. – Authorities in Wisconsin charged a mother and her boyfriend in the death of Elijah Vue, a 3-year-old whose remains were found months after his disappearance set of a massive search effort.
Police charged Katrina Baur, Elijah’s mother, with chronic neglect of a child-consequence is death, child neglect and obstructing an officer. Jesse Vang, 39, who was in a relationship with Elijah’s mother, was charged with physical abuse of a child-repeated acts causing death, hiding a corpse and obstructing an officer.
Baur and Vang were arrested on multiple child neglect and obstruction charges in February, shortly after Elijah disappeared. The new charges alleging the child’s death come after the discovery of Elijah’s remains in September.
“This is an incredibly tragic situation that has shaken our community,” Manitowoc County District Attorney Jacalyn said at a news conference on Thursday. “Our priority has always been to ensure a fair and just process, and today’s announcement is a reflection of our commitment to upholding the law and seeking justice for Elijah.”
What new court documents reveal:Katrina Baur, Jesse Vang charged in Elijah Vue’s death
After Elijah’s disappearance, authorities undertake monthslong search
Elijah was reported missing by Vang on Feb. 20, setting off a sweeping search effort in which crews scoured the city of Two Rivers as they encouraged people to come forward with tips. Over the months, police recovered several pieces of evidence, including a plaid blanket that contained Elijah’s DNA.
On Sept. 7, Elijah’s remains were discovered in a wooded area on private property about 3 miles from Vang’s residence, where the toddler was reportedly last seen.
Baur and Vang are in custody at the Manitowoc County Jail. They are expected to appear for a bail hearing on the new charges Friday afternoon at Manitowoc County Courthouse.
Two Rivers Police Capt. Andrew Raatz thanked agencies and volunteers who assisted in investigating Elijah’s disappearance and death during the news conference Thursday.
“Elijah has been our top priority since he was reported missing Feb. 20 of this year,” Raatz said. “Since the discovery of Elijah’s remains last month, law enforcement and the district attorney’s office has worked diligently to bring those responsible for his death to justice.”
