PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — A man was arrested overnight and is now facing charges in connection with the alleged beating death of his girlfriend’s 11-year-old son in Knoxville.

According to police, the incident happened at an apartment building in the 100-block of Knox Avenue around 11:40 p.m.

Anthony Bush, 29, was taken into custody late Saturday night in connection with the death of Donovan McKee. Authorities say Bush was home with the boy while his mother was working.

The boy’s mother found him unresponsive and called 911, authorities say. The 11-year-old died around 2:45 a.m. at Children’s Hospital.

Neighbors across the hall, who did not want to be identified, were filled with regret because they said they suspected McKee and his younger brother were being abused.

“They never came outside or nothing,” said one of the neighbors. “I knew it. I was going to call CYS and I didn’t.”

“I just wish I could have done something to help,” said another.

According to investigators, Bush told police he planned to discipline the 11-year-old while his mother was at work because she always stopped him when she was at home.

According to the criminal complaint, Bush is accused of beating the child over an eight-hour period, hitting him in the head, legs, arms and trunk area with wooden sticks.

Police say they found McKee lying naked on the living room floor. They also found blood stains on clothing and on bed sheets.

Investigators say Bush later told police he did it and it was his fault.

“Anthony should be ashamed of himself,” one of the neighbors added. “No punishment would be good enough for taking a child’s life.”

Police say McKee’s 5-year-old brother was not harmed. Bush is charged with criminal homicide and endangering the welfare of children.

RELATED LINKS:
Pittsburgh Police
Man Arrested In Connection With Death Of 11-Year-Old Boy (2/12/12)
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