Florida mother accused of killing 4-year-old son and covering his bruises with makeup

TAMPA, Fla. (TCN) -- A 36-year-old mother faces a charge of murder in connection with the death and suspected abuse of her young son.

According to the Tampa Police Department, on June 29 shortly after 4:30 a.m., officers responded to a home after Arayiah Hudson called to report that her son, Joseph Hudson, was unresponsive. Police performed lifesaving measures, but the child was pronounced deceased at a local hospital.

Arayiah Hudson reportedly told police her son "began coughing and having difficulty breathing after eating potato chips and drinking water." However, detectives discovered evidence suggesting history of alleged abuse.

An autopsy revealed Joseph Hudson sustained bruises, abrasions, and internal bleeding. The medical examiner determined the child died of blunt force trauma to the head and torso.

Police allege Joseph Hudson’s mother tried to hide the abuse. Arayiah Hudson reportedly claimed she punished her son, and she used makeup to conceal the bruises near his eyes.

Officers arrested Hudson at her home on the evening of July 1 on a charge of first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse. She remains held in the Hillsborough County Jail without bond.

According to authorities, the victim’s siblings are in the care of their biological fathers.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw called the incident a "heinous crime."

He continued, "Every child deserves to feel safe in their own home and especially with their own mother."