Georgia authorities arrest mother accused of killing son in Michigan

Brandee Pierce faces murder charges after fleeing Detroit with 3-year-old son

BROOKHAVEN, Georgia (CNN/WXYZ)– A Michigan woman wanted for the murder of her 9-year-old son was arrested in Georgia, months after allegedly killing the child and fleeing the state.

41-year-old Brandee Pierce was taken into custody in Brookhaven, Georgia, on December 20, 2023, for cruelty to children in the first degree. Authorities say she fled Detroit with her 3-year-old son, who is now in Georgia foster care.

Weeks later, on January 10, 2024, Pierce was arrested again in Cobb County on charges of possession of a controlled substance and theft.

Meanwhile, back in Detroit, investigators discovered the remains of her 9-year-old son, Zemar King III, on January 6, 2024—buried behind a rental home on Woodingham Drive, where they had lived.

Michigan Authorities Charge Pierce With Murder

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that Pierce is now charged with first-degree premeditated murder and felony murder.

“It is alleged she purchased a shovel, tied his hands and feet together, and buried him behind the house,” Worthy said. She added that the medical examiner determined the cause of death was a result of smothering and neck compression.

Authorities believe Zemar was killed in October 2023, but his body remained undiscovered for months. The landlord, performing maintenance on the property, found the home vacant just before Thanksgiving, leading authorities to realize Pierce had fled the state.

Ongoing Investigation

Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison said investigators are committed to ensuring Pierce is held accountable for her son’s death.

While Pierce awaits extradition to Wayne County, Michigan, her 3-year-old son remains in protective custody in Georgia. Authorities continue to piece together the timeline of events leading up to Zemar’s tragic death.