03/10/2025
A Baltimore County mother, Keyona Dillon, 34, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of her 11-year-old daughter, London. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with family members, neighbors, and authorities struggling to comprehend the events that led to the young girl's untimely death.
According to police reports, officers responded to a cardiac arrest call at the family's home on Firethorn Road Thursday afternoon. Upon arrival, they discovered London's lifeless body in the basement, bearing visible bruises and ligature marks. A plastic drain cleaner was found nearby, which investigators believe was used to strangle the girl.
Further investigation revealed that three other children were present in the house, unharmed. One of them provided a disturbing account of events, telling investigators that Dillon had killed the family pets – including two cats, a rabbit, and a dog – using a hammer and her knee. The child also reported that Dillon had made statements suggesting she believed London was involved in a relationship with her father, claims that were unsubstantiated by evidence.
Dillon was arrested and held without bond at the Baltimore County Detention Center. During a bail review hearing, she demanded to represent herself, citing alleged violations of her rights. "I'm representing myself. Y'all violated my rights. I am an indigenous sovereign of the land. You collected DNA without my permission. You are violating my rights," Dillon stated. The judge ultimately ordered a mental evaluation, which will be conducted before further proceedings.
Family members reported that they had sought intervention from local agencies due to concerns about Dillon's erratic behavior and troubling statements. An aunt and uncle of London told 11 News that they had called Child Protective Services and other agencies, requesting a welfare check, after Dillon's behavior became increasingly alarming. Tragically, their concerns were not addressed in time to prevent London's death.
Neighbors expressed shock, sadness, and outrage at the news of London's death. "I'm just devastated. Devastated. I have a lot of emotions going on. I know this sweet child. She is the most precious child in the neighborhood. She's always in our neighbor's yard, playing. I gave toys to every child on this block; She is the only one that said 'thank you,'" said Cricket Moore, a neighbor. "Now, her life was cut short. So young."
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding London's death. The Maryland Department of Human Services has issued a statement expressing their condolences and commitment to supporting the family, while also acknowledging the limitations imposed by federal and state privacy laws in discussing child welfare cases.
The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of the child welfare system and the support available to families in crisis. Authorities are working to determine whether any red flags were missed and what measures could have been taken to prevent this tragedy.
London's death has left a void in the community, and her memory will be cherished by those who knew her. As one neighbor put it, "She was a sweet, sweet child. She didn't deserve to go like that."
