The “Freezer Mom” Case: A Shocking Story With a Remarkable Outcome for Two Surviving Children
If you’ve followed our blog—or the news over the past few years—you’ve likely heard of “Freezer Mom,” the nickname given to Mitchell Blair, the Detroit woman convicted of killing two of her four children and storing their bodies in a chest freezer near her front door. Her horrific crimes were discovered in 2015 when Blair was evicted from her apartment, and movers found the bodies of 13-year-old Stoni and 9-year-old Stephen wrapped in plastic and hidden in the freezer.
Blair showed no remorse during court proceedings. In fact, she told the judge she would do it all over again if she had the chance.
Blair tortured her children before killing them
During her court testimony, Blair claimed that she killed the children because they had sexually assaulted her youngest son. However, she admitted she had never witnessed any of these alleged assaults herself, nor had she ever reported them to police or CPS. Investigators were unable to find any evidence supporting her claims, which raised serious doubts about whether the two murdered children had done anything wrong at all.
The case remains one of the most disturbing examples of child abuse and filicide in Michigan’s recent history.
What happened to the two surviving children?
After Blair’s arrest, the court quickly terminated her parental rights. She is now serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole. The two surviving children—a 10-year-old boy and a 19-year-old girl at the time—were placed with their maternal aunt and uncle.
Blair specifically asked that her sister take custody of the children. Her sister, a retired child abuse investigator with the Detroit Police Department, had previously expressed concern for their safety. Blair told the court she believed her sister would raise them right and make sure they “don’t turn out like me.”
Both children are now thriving
According to court records, both surviving children were placed in therapy and received consistent support after their mother’s arrest. The younger boy was adopted by his new family, and the older daughter graduated from high school and went on to attend college. She eventually moved out of her aunt’s home and into an independent living facility.
Wayne County Circuit Judge Edward Joseph, who monitored their care after Blair’s arrest, said both children had exceeded expectations in terms of recovery and personal progress. Their story is a reminder of what’s possible when children are given the chance to heal.
Children can overcome trauma with the right support
Child abuse and neglect have lasting effects, and many children carry emotional wounds for years. But with the right intervention—therapy, safe environments, and consistent care—kids can recover and even thrive. The human spirit, especially in children, is incredibly resilient.
If your child has experienced trauma, or if someone you love has been accused of abuse or neglect, remember that there is help available. These situations are incredibly serious, and the consequences can be life-changing.
At The Kronzek Firm, we’ve spent decades defending Michigan parents accused of child abuse and neglect. If you are facing allegations or a CPS investigation, call us right away at 866-766-5245. Our experienced defense attorneys are available 24/7 to help you protect your family and your future.