DES MOINES, Iowa — One person is charged with neglect following the death of a woman earlier in January, according to Des Moines police.
DMPD patrol officers and Des Moines Fire Department rescue personnel responded to 4110 Indianola Avenue on Tuesday, Jan. 10 after receiving reports of a person in cardiac arrest.
Upon arrival, first responders found a deceased 52-year-old woman.
Based on observations made at the scene, DMPD identified "cause for further investigation".
Less than a week later, evidence led detectives to arrest 51-year-old Daniel Bruce Orona II.
According to a criminal complaint filed Tuesday, Orona assaulted the victim on multiple occasions between Jan. 4-10.
Orona admitted to striking the victim in the head with an aluminum crutch, which was recovered on the victim's property.
The criminal complaint also alleges Orona admitted to knowing he should call 911 to get the victim the medical care needed, but "did not call to avoid dealing with the police."
Orona is charged with Neglect or Abandonment of a Dependent Person, a Class C Felony.
He is currently being held at the Polk County Jail with a bond set for $50,000.
"Additional criminal charges may follow, pending complete forensic autopsy findings," Sgt. Paul Parizek said in a press release.
DMPD detectives continue to investigate the incident.
Local 5 will update this story as more information becomes available. Download the We Are Iowa app or subscribe to Local 5's "5 Things to Know" email newsletter for the latest.
► Download the We Are Iowa app
► Sign up for Local 5's "5 Things to Know" email newsletter
► Subscribe to Local 5 News on YouTube