Nationwide — Jor’Dynn Duncan, a 7-year-old African American girl from Bayport, New York, died after alleged abuse while living with her father’s fiancée. Prosecutors say three women, who are family members, face charges after evidence of 90 injuries before her December 2025 death.
Jor’Dynn had been placed under the care of her father’s fiancée, Emily Kelly, after child protective services approved the arrangement in late 2024. Kelly later received legal custody in April 2025, while the child’s mother had lost custody and her father was incarcerated.
According to People, authorities say Jor’Dynn lived in Kelly’s Bayport home with other family members for several months before her death. Prosecutors describe the environment as one where she remained under constant supervision by Kelly’s household.
On December 29, 2025, Kelly called 911 reporting that the child was in cardiac arrest. Emergency responders arrived and rushed Jor’Dynn to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
An autopsy later found she died from a severe untreated infection linked to sharp force injuries. Investigators documented about 90 injuries on her body, which led Suffolk County homicide detectives to open a criminal investigation.
Prosecutors say digital evidence from phones and cloud accounts showed repeated abuse over time. They also allege the child missed about 40 school days in 2025, with explanations given for absences that included illness claims and family emergencies.
Three women now face charges in the case. Kelly’s mother, Barbara Renner, 75, is charged with manslaughter and child endangerment. Kelly’s daughter, Elyssa Seymore, 24, faces unlawful imprisonment and child endangerment charges. Kelly faces multiple counts including murder and unlawful imprisonment.
All three have pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors say the evidence points to repeated harm over time, while defense attorneys deny intent to kill and dispute responsibility. The court has set bail as the case continues.