Prosecutors: Murdered DC toddler had lacerated liver, numerous rib fractures

WASHINGTON - A D.C. man accused of killing his girlfriend's 2-year-old son has been ordered held without bond following a hearing Thursday afternoon.

James Embre has been charged with first-degree murder of Aceyson Aizim Ahmad. The toddler was found unresponsive with multiple injuries to the upper body after authorities responded to an apartment in the 3400 block of A Street in Southeast D.C., according to police. The boy was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Prosecutors described in court that the toddler suffered several injuries to his head and torso areas, which included a lacerated liver, numerous rib fractures, lung contusions and the loss of a large amount of blood. An artery to the boy's heart was also lacerated.

According to court documents, the boy's injuries were initially reported to be from a fall from a bunkbed, but the medical examiner found that the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

An autopsy performed on the boy determined he died from blunt force injuries and his death was ruled a homicide. According to court documents, the medical examiner said an incredible amount of force was used against the child.

Court documents also revealed there was another child who shared the bedroom with the deceased toddler. She reported to her mother that Embre hit her in the leg and she saw him punch the 2-year-old boy several times in the back in an attack that was unprovoked.

Prosecutors told the judge in court that the safety of the community and children were at stake and they asked Embre not be released on bond.

Embre was seen sobbing in court and on his way out of the courtroom, he yelled out to some people that he didn't do it.

The 24-year-old is scheduled to return to court on May 24.