The Murder of Miana Moran

On February 16, 2025, first responders were dispatched to a residence in Grafton, West Virginia where 11-year-old Miana Moran was found unresponsive on the kitchen floor. She was transported to a hospital and pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

At the time of her death Miana weighed approximately 43 pounds and stood around 47 inches tall. Authorities described these measurements as grossly inconsistent with her age. First responders and medical staff documented visible malnourishment, protruding bones, yellowing skin, head lice, bruising, and lacerations.

The autopsy determined that Miana suffered from bilateral diffuse acute bronchopneumonia, with failure to thrive listed as a contributing factor. Failure to thrive is a medical term often used when prolonged malnutrition and neglect are present. Investigators further reported that Miana had not received any medical care since 2020.

According to court documents, Miana had reportedly lost the ability to walk independently and was sleeping excessively in the months before her death. Authorities allege that she was intentionally deprived of food as punishment while other members of the household were allowed to eat.

Child Protective Services had reportedly visited the home multiple times in the weeks leading up to Miana's death, including a visit approximately one month prior. No action was taken. Her primary caregiver allegedly admitted to investigators that she did not seek medical treatment because she feared the abuse would be reported.