The community of De Soto, Illinois, remains shocked by the death of Leland “Lee” Arnett, an 8-year-old boy who died after being seriously injured during an alleged attack that occurred in his family home.

According to court documents and statements from relatives obtained by WSIL, the minor tried to protect his mother during an episode of domestic violence that occurred on the night of May 13.

Authorities reported that agents went to the home around 11:00 p.m. after receiving reports of a domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival, they found the child's mother, Deborah Snider, 31, unconscious and seriously injured. Lee also had a severe head injury.

Both were taken by helicopter to a hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

The minor died four days later

Despite medical efforts, Lee died on May 17 due to the severity of the injuries sustained.

Relatives said the boy was trying to protect his mother when the attack occurred.

“This happened because Lee was trying to protect his mom,” his great-aunt Anne Donlan Andrew told The Journal Star.

The family member highlighted the courage shown by the minor in an extremely dangerous situation.

The family reported that Deborah Snider remains under medical care as she continues to recover from injuries sustained during the incident.

According to those close to her, the woman was informed of her son's death while she was hospitalized and was unable to attend his funeral.

Relatives have begun efforts to move her back to Nebraska, where much of her family environment resides.

For security reasons, they have not offered additional details about his health.

Suspect faces murder charges

Authorities identified the defendant as 36-year-old Marcus Moultrie.

He was initially charged with several counts of attempted murder following his arrest on May 14. However, prosecutors amended the charge after the minor's death.

He currently faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder.

Prosecutors also added an aggravating circumstance stating that the crimes would have involved “exceptionally brutal” conduct and alleged extreme cruelty.

Moultrie has pleaded not guilty to all charges and remains in custody pending the judicial process.

His next court appearance is scheduled for this week and the trial is scheduled to begin in July.

Relatives point to a history of violence

Relatives of Deborah Snider affirmed that the incident would not have been an isolated event within the relationship.

According to reports, the woman had previously tried to abandon her partner.

Those close to him also noted that the limited options for shelter and protection in a small community like De Soto may have made it difficult to find a safe place.

The statements are part of family testimonies and do not constitute judicial findings.

Lee's death has generated a deep wave of grief among family, friends, teachers and schoolmates.

His obituary describes him as a happy, loving child and always willing to help others. “More than anything else, Lee was a protector,” notes the tribute posted by his family.

"He stood up for those who needed kindness or care. His heart was gentle, brave and compassionate beyond his years."

The family also reported that the minor donated his organs, a gesture they described as his “final act of heroism.”

De Soto Elementary School organized various initiatives to honor the boy's memory.

Among them, the making and selling of keychains with the image of a frog, Lee's favorite animal, the proceeds of which will be used to support the family.

His classmates also made a paper chain with messages, memories and tributes dedicated to the minor.