MOUNT VERNON — The body of a girl who died of hypothermia in the rain outside a Sedro-Woolley home will be exhumed in an attempt to determine her age.
Hana Williams was believed to be 13 when she died in May of 2011, but her age was uncertain because she was adopted in 2008 from Ethiopia.
The Skagit Valley Herald reported that her age would make a difference in homicide by abuse charges against her parents. The charge applies only to victims under 16.
A judge ordered the grave to be opened at a hearing Wednesday in Mount Vernon where Larry and Carri Williams pleaded not guilty to all charges against them. They include manslaughter, which would apply regardless of age. The two also are charged with child assault of an adopted son.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.