Cleveland Mom Charged in Suitcase Murders of 2 Daughters

Aliyah Henderson faces aggravated murder charges after remains of 10-year-old Amor Wilson and 8-year-old Mila Chatman found in suitcases

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A routine dog walk in Cleveland's South Collinwood neighborhood took a horrific turn when a man discovered two suitcases containing the remains of young children. Police have arrested 28-year-old Aliyah Henderson, the mother of the victims, on charges of aggravated murder. The victims were identified as half-sisters Amor Wilson, 10, and Mila Chatman, 8, using DNA testing. A third child was found at Henderson's home and is now in the custody of child welfare services.

Why it matters

This case has shaken the Cleveland community and raised questions about the complex factors that can contribute to such tragic family violence, including mental health issues, socioeconomic stressors, and lack of adequate support systems for struggling parents. Experts suggest a multi-faceted approach is needed to prevent future tragedies.

The details

Police arrested Henderson on Wednesday, March 4, at her home located across from the field where the suitcases were found. A search warrant revealed a third child at the residence who appeared to be in good health. Henderson faces two counts of aggravated murder, Ohio's most severe murder charge, indicating a premeditated and horrific crime. She is also charged with child endangering.

  • The dog walker found the suitcases partially buried near East 162nd Street and Midland Avenue around 6 p.m. on Monday, March 2.
  • Police arrested Aliyah Henderson on Wednesday, March 4, at her home.

The players

Aliyah Henderson

A 28-year-old Cleveland resident who has been charged with two counts of aggravated murder and child endangering in the deaths of her two daughters.

Amor Wilson

A 10-year-old girl whose remains were found in one of the suitcases.

Mila Chatman

An 8-year-old girl and half-sister of Amor Wilson, whose remains were found in the second suitcase.

DeShaun Chatman

The father of Mila Chatman, who had been searching for her since 2020 and described her as a cheerful child who loved the color pink.

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What they’re saying

“We must have patience and discretion as the investigation continues.”

— Dorothy Todd, Police Chief (newsy-today.com)

“I had tried to get emergency custody of Mila five times over the years without success.”

— DeShaun Chatman (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Aliyah Henderson out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for increased funding for social services, improved access to mental healthcare, and stronger support systems for families in crisis to prevent future violence and protect vulnerable children.