A Heartbreaking Loss: Community Mourns 7-Year-Old Hershall Creachbaum
Seven-year-old Hershall Creachbaum, a nonverbal boy who used a wheelchair, brought light to everyone around him—until tragedy stole that light too soon.
Last seen weeks ago but only reported missing on July 12, 2025, a massive search quickly turned into a homicide investigation. Days later, authorities discovered remains near McClure Street, believed to be Hershall’s. Dayton Police Chief Kamran Afzal called the case “truly evil.”
His mother, Ashley Johnson, and her boyfriend, Michael Kendrick, now face charges. Kendrick, already with a criminal history, admitted to fatally harming Hershall during a drunken argument, later hiding his body in a freezer before dumping it. Johnson, charged with obstruction and failure to report a death, allegedly cut off family access in May after the boy’s grandmother—his legal guardian—was hospitalized.
Cousin Chasity Rollins, a key caregiver, called his death “senseless” and said, “We shouldn’t be burying this boy at 7.”
In response, Dayton has created a memorial site and launched a petition for a public mural to honor Hershall and raise awareness about abuse and disabled children’s safety.
“Let Hershall’s name be remembered—not just for tragedy, but for love and awareness,” reads the petition.
Justice is unfolding, but a community is already forever changed.
