8-year-old boy beaten to death, police suspect mother's friend

DETROIT (FOX 2) – An 8-year-old boy was beaten to death on Detroit's east side Friday morning. Police believe the boyfriend of the boy's mother was the perpetrator, but no charges had been filed as of Saturday evening.

Adren Thimes Sr. was killed when his son was just a year old, and his namesake was also killed seven years later, according to the family, which had to identify his body at the morgue.

“I was just so empty and numb,” his grandmother said, recalling the feeling as she walked into the Wayne County Mortuary. It wasn't the first time Adriana Thimes had to take this walk. “We went in and asked if she had it. That's when things got serious. He was there.”

She said her grandson, Adren Thimes Jr., had visible signs of head trauma and injuries to his face.

“He was the sweetest kid, very smart,” Adriana said.

Adriana said she remained close with Adren and his mother until, over the past six months, her live-in boyfriend began refusing visits and dictating when she could see her grandson.

The police are currently working on obtaining an arrest warrant for the friend.

Fox 2 will not release the boyfriend's name until a charging decision is made.