Caregivers Apprehended in Washington Following Homicide Investigation Into Death of Live Oak Juvenile
LIVE OAK, CA — The Sutter County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of two individuals in connection with the 2025 starvation death of a 14-year-old girl in Live Oak. The suspects, identified as 33-year-old Megan Fredrick and 37-year-old Sherwood Johnson II, were the primary caregivers for the victim, a developmentally disabled juvenile who required constant care and nutrition through a feeding tube.
The investigation began in January 2025, when deputies and medical personnel responded to a call regarding an unresponsive juvenile in the 9000 block of Rachel Street. Despite life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased. Following a detailed investigation and a report from the coroner, the cause of death was determined to be starvation and neglect. The manner of death was subsequently ruled a homicide.
After relocating out of state, Fredrick and Johnson were located in Washington. With assistance from the Spokane County Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement & Narcotics (RAVEN) Task Force, both suspects were apprehended on outstanding warrants. They were held at the Spokane County Jail pending extradition to California.
Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes commended the staff for their professionalism in handling the case and expressed his condolences for the victim. Both suspects are facing charges of murder and child abuse causing death. Detectives are currently coordinating the transport of the suspects back to Sutter County.
