Police believe suspect in death of a child committed suicide at Hamilton Place

2 year old boy died in September, Medical Examiner ruled it was a homicide over the weekend

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Chattanooga Police say a woman who apparently took her own life on Monday was charged with the death of a young child over the weekend.

The case began on September 10th, when police were called to a child having trouble breathing at a home on Fairwood Lane off Highway 58.

The two year old ended up dying at the hospital.

But officials at the time said his injuries were suspicious.

Over the weekend, the Medical Examiner ruled the child died as the result of a homicide.

Police issued warrants for the arrest of 62-year old Debra Barnes on charges of Criminal Homicide, Aggravated Child Abuse and Aggravated Child Neglect.

But on Monday, they responded to a parking lot on Hamilton Place Boulevard and found the body of Barnes.

They believe the death was a suicide.

Police are still asking for any tips on the case.

If you have any information, please contact the Homicide Tip Line at 423-643-5100 or submit a tip via the CPD Mobile App. You can remain anonymous.