Delaware Father Arrested for Beating and Killing 10-Year-Old Daughter Over Field Trip Money

Delaware State Police have arrested Badara Kone, a 49-year-old father of three, in connection with the death of his 10-year-old daughter Fatima. The tragic incident occurred on May 28 when Fatima's body was found in her room after she had been allegedly beaten by her father the previous night for lying about field trip money. According to investigators, Fatima sustained a head injury during the beating and fell unconscious before being placed in bed by her siblings.

Fatima’s death came as a result of severe physical abuse that included hitting her with a leather belt. Her older brother and younger sister were present during the alleged assault. The following morning, when Fatima was found dead, it took some time for anyone to call emergency services. Medical examination revealed that she died from blunt force trauma inflicted during the beating.

In addition to murder charges, Badara Kone faces allegations of child abuse against his two other children—a 15-year-old son and an 11-year-old brother. Both boys disclosed to investigators that they had been subjected to similar physical discipline with a belt over the past year. Upon Fatima's autopsy results confirming her death as a homicide, Badara Kone was arraigned on June 1 for second-degree murder by abuse or neglect.

Currently, Badara Kone is being held without bail at $180,000 cash bond pending further investigation and legal proceedings. This case highlights the severe consequences of abusive disciplinary practices within families and underscores the importance of recognizing signs of child maltreatment.