A Holmes Beach man has been arrested and charged in the death of a 17-month-old boy. 

  • Man charged in death of 17-month-old boy
  • David Vickers charged with 2nd degree homicide; child abuse
  • 17-month-old Lucas Sholey died on Aug. 23

Officials said David Vickers, 32, called 911 on Aug. 21 after the child, Lucas Sholey, became unresponsive and stopped breathing. 

The child was transported to Blake Medical Center and later airlifted to All Children's Hospital, St. Pete in critical condition. 

Officials said Sholey was declared brain dead from his injuries two days later on Aug. 23. 

Hospital staff found injuries on Sholey consistent with child abuse. 

The Holmes Beach Police Department and the Manatee County Sheriff's Office began an investigation and found that the child had been physically abused while in the care of Vickers on several occasions. 

The injuries that the child sustained on Aug. 21 ultimately led to his death. 

Vickers has been charged with one count of 2nd degree homicide and one count of aggravated child abuse.