A 28-year-old Wisconsin mother, Selena Doxzon, has been charged in connection with the tragic drowning death of her 13-month-old son, Asher Doxzon, in June 2023.
Doxzon has appeared in court this week, where she is said to have reached a plea deal with prosecutors regarding the charges. The case centers around allegations that she left her young son unattended in a bathtub, leading to his death from asphyxiation.
The Tragic Incident
On the morning of June 9, 2023, Doxzon ran a bath for her 1-year-old and 3-year-old sons. According to court records, Doxzon placed her 13-month-old son in the bathtub, where the water level was slightly above his belly while he was seated.
After washing both children, Doxzon allowed them to play in the water and left the bathroom to prepare breakfast in the kitchen. During this time, she was away for around four minutes when her 3-year-old son, soaked with water, entered the kitchen.
Upon returning to the bathroom, Doxzon discovered her son’s body floating in the water, face up and unresponsive. She immediately tried to perform CPR and called for help, but tragically, the boy was pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital.
Investigation and Charges
An autopsy later confirmed that Asher Doxzon died from asphyxiation due to drowning. According to Doxzon’s statements to the police, she admitted that she should have used less water in the bathtub for her child’s safety.
She also confirmed that she could not see the bathroom from the kitchen where she was preparing food.
Doxzon was charged with one count of neglect of a child resulting in death. Initially pleading not guilty to the charge in June 2023, she has now agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors, and a plea and sentencing hearing has been scheduled for September 2, 2025.
The Legal Proceedings and Consequences
Doxzon’s case has drawn significant attention due to the tragic nature of the incident. While she will likely plead to a reduced charge, the maximum penalty for child neglect resulting in death in Wisconsin is 25 years in prison. Doxzon had posted a $10,000 bond after her arrest and has remained free pending the outcome of the case.
This case highlights the importance of supervision when it comes to young children, especially in situations involving water, where even a brief lapse in attention can lead to devastating consequences.
