FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN — A case that has shaken Muskegon County and left an entire school community grieving began unfolding Sunday, November 23, 2025, when police were called to the Clover Estates Mobile Home Park for an unresponsive child. Prosecutors say 11-year-old Mialah Leak was killed by her adoptive mother, 55-year-old Sherry Leak, who is accused of sitting on Mialah during a confrontation, restricting her breathing until she lost consciousness. Fruitport Township officers and emergency crews arrived around 5:45 p.m., but despite CPR attempts, Mialah could not be revived. Leak herself was the 911 caller and reported performing CPR, although investigators now view her as the assaulting party in the child’s death.
The Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Leak with manslaughter, which in Michigan is defined as homicide without malice or premeditation. The charge does not require intent to kill, only negligent action resulting in death. Chief Trial Attorney Matt Roberts said they believe the available evidence is strong enough to prove manslaughter beyond a reasonable doubt. He also noted the investigation is ongoing, the final medical examiner findings are still pending, and additional charges such as child abuse may be added if the injuries or history support them.
Investigators are also reviewing whether signs of abuse were ever reported. Roberts explained that law enforcement and CPS are largely reactive agencies and can only intervene when complaints are brought through proper intake channels. If past concerns were reported, investigators will be evaluating whether intervention should have occurred sooner. If no reports were ever filed, Roberts stressed that warning signs cannot be acted on without someone coming forward.
The surviving twin, who is nonverbal and has significant medical needs, has been removed from the home and placed into specialized foster care. With Leak facing criminal prosecution and parental rights likely to be terminated, the state will begin searching for a permanent placement once the child is medically stable. Roberts called the case “especially devastating,” noting that the death occurred on what was reportedly the twins’ 11th birthday, adding another layer of heartbreak for family, classmates, and the larger community.
Fruitport Community Schools described Mialah as a kind and bright fifth-grader with a warm smile and positive spirit. Crisis response teams are assisting students and staff as they process the loss. Many are now left mourning a child who should have lived her entire life ahead of her, while at the same time wondering if this tragedy could have been prevented.
Leak remains held on $100,000 bond, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for December 9 and a preliminary examination set for December 16. The investigation remains open, and anyone with information is asked to contact Fruitport Township Police.
