Family member identifies 14-year-old girl as Kyneddi Miller; Mother still in jail on child neglect causing death charge

BOONE COUNTY, WV (WOWK) — A 14-year-old girl in Boone County who was found in a bathroom “emaciated to a skeletal state” has been identified as Kyneddi Miller, a close family member confirmed to 13 News.

Another family member told law enforcement that Kyneddi had an eating disorder and had not been eating for months, according to a criminal complaint for her mother, Julie Miller. It said the teen was unable to function on her own for almost a week due to her physical state.

The criminal complaint said Kyneddi had only been outside two times in four years and had not been to school since 2019 or 2020.

Kyneddi’s “clear and distinct physical problems” showed that the mother had not gotten help for her in at least four years, which is what caused her death, the complaint said.

Julie Miller is being charged with child neglect resulting in death, according to the complaint. She is being held in the Southwestern Regional Jail on a $250,000 bond.

Neighbors tell WOWK 13 News anonymously they were unaware of the severity of the situation, and they have seen state police making alleged wellness checks. They also say Kyneddi hasn’t been seen by people in the area since 2019, but she appeared to be healthy when they saw her. They have not seen her since then.

Neighbors say they knew the grandparents, and they were always respected by other members of the community. The neighbors tell 13 News they never suspected any neglect or abuse in the household. They believe the weight loss came suddenly and believe the family was planning to get her help.

WOWK 13 News did speak with the family, and they are asking for privacy and prayers as they go through this difficult time.

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