VAN BUREN, AR – A chilling case has emerged in Arkansas, where a stepfather and mother are accused of the murder of a 2-year-old boy during a supposed swimming lesson. The tragic incident, allegedly an attempt to teach the young child how to swim, took a fatal turn, raising serious questions about parental negligence and abuse.

Dakota Shawn Hays, 29, and Annastacia Atkins, 24, both residents of Van Buren, have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and other charges linked to the death. The case revolves around Atkins’ son, who died in June 2024, as well as previous allegations of abuse discovered during the investigation, according to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

An autopsy performed revealed injuries on the toddler, pointing to inflicted trauma rather than accidental harm. Authorities report the boy died after Hays ostensibly took him for a swimming lesson on June 17, 2024. Despite his mother’s permission to proceed, what unfolded was a tragic series of events.

According to affidavits, other children present at the pool that day recounted seeing Hays repeatedly throwing the toddler into the water and forcing him underwater. The children stated that the boy expressed a desire to stop swimming but was ignored. After a brief dinner break, the swimming instruction resumed, they said.

The situation escalated when the boy began showing signs of distress by spitting up water and shaking. Hays reportedly told police he believed the boy might be having a seizure. Despite the mother’s presence nearby, it was only after this that the boy received assistance.

Upon returning indoors with the ailing child, Hays reportedly communicated that the boy was unwell. Emergency services were contacted, but during the call, the boy’s heart and breathing stopped. Atkins attempted to revive her son but was too late, according to the affidavit.

Statements from Atkins revealed her guilt and regret, admitting to investigators she should not have allowed her son to return to the pool under Hays’ supervision. This confession adds to the disturbing narrative, compounded by other children’s testimony of Hays’ aggressive behavior towards the toddler.

The medical examiner confirmed the death resulted from sustained deprivation of oxygen to the brain. Additional allegations in the affidavit suggest that Hays was previously abusive, reportedly striking the toddler with a stick.

Hays has been charged with endangering the welfare of a minor along with murder and remains in custody with a bond set at $1 million. Atkins faces charges including permitting the abuse of a minor and is held on a $750,000 bond.