Earl Wilson
Earl Wilson was 12 when he died in 1944 while held at the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys in Marianna, Florida. The school's pathologist said he died after a strong blow to the head, while trial testimony described asphyxiation with a bat, and four other boys who were held with him in a small confinement cottage known as the sweat box were accused of killing him. A 2014 forensic examination could not confirm the head injuries because of tissue damage over time. University of South Florida researchers identified his remains through DNA testing, and his sister, Cherry Wilson of Lakeland, learned of the identification.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by another person in custody (disputed). The school's pathologist cited a strong blow to the head, trial testimony described asphyxiation with a bat, and a University of South Florida report says four boys allegedly killed him in the sweat box.
Reported by: the school's pathologist (medical examiner or coroner); trial testimony; University of South Florida researchers.
Sources (5)
- Exhumed remains identified from graves at notorious Florida school
- Hell Unearthed at the Florida School for Boys—Again
- More children’s bodies identified at Florida reform school
- Documentary on University of South Florida's investigation of the former Dozier School for Boys to air
- The Horrifying History Of The Florida School For Boys