# New Jersey child murder investigation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-jersey-child-murder-investigation
> Updated: 2026-10-17T10:24:07.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Authorities in Paulsboro, New Jersey, have charged India Miller, 27, and Sean Scott, 45, with murder following the death of 9-year-old Maya Thomas.

Prosecutors allege the couple provided a false report claiming the child was struck by a vehicle while walking a dog. However, investigators noted that surveillance footage showed no vehicle traffic in the area at the time of the reported incident. A medical examiner ruled the death a homicide, citing multiple blunt-force injuries—including facial trauma, broken ribs, and a ruptured colon—that were inconsistent with a car accident.

The autopsy revealed injuries in various stages of healing, which investigators suggest indicates a pattern of prolonged abuse. In addition to murder charges, the pair faces counts of child endangerment, making a fictitious report, and hindering prosecution. Investigators are also looking into allegations of physical and sexual abuse.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-17: New Jersey couple charged with murder in death of 9-year-old girl

A New Jersey mother and stepfather face murder charges after authorities determined a 9-year-old girl died from blunt-force injuries, contradicting their claims that she was hit by a car.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-jersey-couple-charged-with-murder-in-death-of-9-year-old-girl

### 2026-10-15: New Jersey couple charged with murder in death of 9-year-old daughter

A New Jersey couple is charged with murder after allegedly beating their 9-year-old daughter to death and falsely claiming she was hit by a car in Paulsboro.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paulsboro-couple-charged-with-murder-in-death-of-9-year-old-girl

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Cite as: New Jersey child murder investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-jersey-child-murder-investigation