Grandparents grieve over loss of Kilah Davenport

CONCORD, N.C. — The grandparents of a child abuse victim said they're still coming to grips with the sudden loss, but they know Kilah Davenport's legacy will live on.

Kilah's grandparents said she was rushed to the hospital Thursday night after she stopped breathing and never regained consciousness.

The grandparents of a child abuse victim said they're still coming to grips with the sudden loss, but they know Kilah Davenport's legacy will live on.

"It's very difficult," said Leslie Davenport.  "She's better now, she's healed. She doesn't have to suffer any pain anymore."

Kilah's grandparents said she was rushed to the hospital Thursday night after she stopped breathing and never regained consciousness.

Eyewitness News has been following Kilah's story since May 2012, when her stepfather beat her, causing brain damage.
 
He was convicted of felony child abuse in February.
 
Eyewitness News reporter Tina Terry learned he could face more charges in light of Kilah's death.
 
Joshua Houser is already serving seven to 10 years in prison for abusing Kilah.

A lawyer said Friday he could face more charges in her death and Kilah's grandparents say they would support that.

"That's where the autopsy report is going to be key," said Rob Corbett, a defense attorney. "If they can show that her death was a result of those original injuries, I think it does give them an argument to charge for murder." 

The Union County District Attorney said Friday he's investigating Kilah's death and hasn't decided whether to pursue more charges against houser.

"If her injuries were the cause of her death, I do want him retried," said Leslie Davenport.

Leslie Davenport and her husband Brian Davenport have labored through the day Friday with eyes full of tears and heavy hearts following the death of their four-year-old granddaughter.
 
While Kilah's family waits on those autopsy results, they're preparing for her funeral which they hope will be a celebration of her life.  
 
Kilah's case has changed North Carolina's law.
 
Last April, Gov. Pat McCrory signed into law tougher punishments for serious child abuse cases.
The new law could double prison time.
 
An offender who would have served 15 years in prison could now serve up to nearly 33 years and Kilah's family said they're not finished yet.

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