Bronx boy, disabled and recently reunited with his mother, found dead; she has a history of mental illness.

A tragic incident has emerged from the Wakefield neighborhood of the Bronx, where Lisa Cotton, 38, and her 8-year-old son, Nazir Millien, were found deceased in their apartment. The unfortunate situation left Cotton’s 4-year-old daughter alone in the home with the two deceased family members for several days. Reports indicate that Cotton had been grappling with severe mental health issues, specifically schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, which may have significantly impacted her ability to care for her children, especially following Nazir’s return from a rehabilitation facility.

Eyewitness accounts from family members suggest that Cotton was overwhelmed by her circumstances. A family friend, who has previously taken guardianship over Cotton’s older teenage daughter, expressed concern regarding the lack of support that was afforded to Cotton during her difficulties. The friend highlighted that a more proactive approach from mental health services and the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) could have altered the tragic outcome. This friend is now seeking to become the guardian for Cotton’s surviving 4-year-old daughter.

Cotton’s father, Hubert Cotton, stated that he had offered to take care of his granddaughter full-time. However, he mentioned that Lisa was resistant to this proposal, as she expressed a desire for family cohesion by keeping both children together. Nazir, who required specialized care, had been rehabilitating for approximately two years before returning to his mother’s care about five months ago. His disabilities necessitated significant support, which combined with Cotton’s mental health struggles, presented substantial challenges for the family.

Reports indicate that emergency services were first alerted on April 15 when a 911 call requested a welfare check on the family. Initially, responding officers found no signs of distress, as there were no urgent screams or odors detected at that time. However, as days passed, neighbors reported a strong smell emanating from the apartment and heard the young girl crying for help. When her teenage sister arrived on April 18, she discovered their lifeless bodies and promptly alerted their grandfather and emergency services.

Authorities have stated that the city’s Medical Examiner’s office is conducting autopsies to determine the specific causes of death. The ACS has emphasized that the safety and well-being of children remain a top priority, and they are cooperating with the NYPD during this investigation.

In light of this tragic loss, family and friends are rallying support, with plans to establish guardianship for the surviving child and fundraise to assist with funeral expenses for the deceased. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved support systems for families facing mental health challenges and the complexities of caring for children with disabilities. The community’s response to these events may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about mental health policies and child welfare in New York City. The situation remains under investigation as more details continue to emerge.