WOBURN, Mass. — This week marks a somber anniversary for a Woburn family. Four years have passed since the death of their toddler. Fifteen-month-old Noah Larson went unresponsive in his babysitter’s care. The child’s death was ruled a homicide, but the family is still seeking justice for Noah.
Along a busy suburban street, a tree grows in the front yard of Noah’s grandmother, Kendra Carpenter.
“Somebody donated a tree for him and we decided to plant it here,” Kendra told Boston 25 News Anchor Kerry Kavanaugh.
Carpenter planted it shortly after Noah died. That growing tree is a symbol of support for the entire family.
“It’s overwhelming to see how much support this little boy has and how much he touched so many people’s lives, Carpenter said.
On the 4 year anniversary of his death, messages of hope and love now surround the tree in the form of hand-painted rocks. They were brought there by family, friends, and strangers.
“Overwhelming to see all the support that Noah and Amelia have. And, you know, just really hoping that this is the year for justice ultimately,” said Noah’s mom Lindsey Keane.
The painted rocks share small words of encouragement for a family still fighting for justice.
August 15, 2016, the toddler and his twin sister Emilia were in a babysitter’s care at a Woburn apartment when a call was made to 911. Noah and Emilia were rushed to the hospital.
Emilia had several injuries including multiple bone fractures. Noah suffered a traumatic brain injury and never regained consciousness.
“There were so many things that were happening at the same time. It was just overwhelming and answering questions and you know, being at his bedside being at Emilia’s bedside,” Keane said.
In the middle of their horrific loss, police, and DCF questioned Keane and dad, Paul Larson. They also questioned the babysitter and all adults who had access to the children inside the apartment that day.
Years later, the investigation continues. No one has faced any charges for what happened Noah or Emilia that August day.
“Obviously nothing will bring no back,” Keane told Kavanaugh. “But it will mean that at least our fight and everything that we have gone through was not in vain.”
“Just a smiley, little gap-toothed little baby always brought joy and laughter to everybody,” Carpenter said when asked how she remembers Noah.
“He was just so snugly, so warm, like, you know, very laid back as long as he had a pair of arms to fall into,” Keane said.
Emilia is now 5. She is a powerful reminder that life does go on as does this family’s fight.
"Seeing you know, Amelia is milestones happening and realizing that unfortunately, Noah will never be able to meet those milestones with her," Keane said.
Noah’s dad recently wrote on Facebook:
“Our hearts have definitely been broken but our strength will never be shattered. I promise you that no matter what life throws your direction you have the strength within to keep on fighting.”
Keane says she hopes to use her family's experience to help families navigate any sudden and tragic losses they might face.
We reached out to the Middlesex County District Attorney’s office about the latest in the case and they tell us the investigation remains active and ongoing
>> Previous: Justice for Noah: Local family fights for answers 2 years after toddler’s killing