TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa police say a 36-year-old mother is facing charges in the death of her 4-year-old son.

Arayiah Hudson told first responders on Saturday that her son, Joseph, choked on potato chips and water. Crews arrived at a home on 8400 block of N. 15th Street and tried CPR, but the boy died.

According to a news release, officers found evidence of abuse, and a medical exam revealed injuries and internal bleeding. The exam concluded that the young boy died from blunt force trauma to the head and torso.

Authorities believe Hudson tried to cover up what happened by putting makeup on the boy's face, according to the police release.

Arayiah Hudson has been changed with first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse for the death of her 4-year-old son, according to authorities. (Tampa Police Department)
Arayiah Hudson has been changed with first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse for the death of her 4-year-old son, according to authorities. (Tampa Police Department)

Hudson was arrested at her home on Monday and charged with first-degree murder while engaged in aggravated child abuse. She was taken to Orient Road Jail. 

Joseph Hudson’s siblings were united with their biological fathers, who did not reside at the home on North 15th Street

"This is a heinous crime. Every child deserves to feel safe in their own home and especially with their own mother,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “The Tampa Police Department is committed to bringing justice for Joseph and ensuring the safety of all children in our community."