Hendersonville Couple Indicted in Child Death Case
A grand jury has charged a Hendersonville couple with first-degree murder following the death of a 10-year-old child.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Crime — General
Howard Carrithers Wimer and Universe Wimer face charges of first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. The pair was taken into custody on Oct. 13, 2026.
Why it matters
The indictment follows the death of 10-year-old Passion Wimer, whose death occurred in November 2024. The charges stem from allegations of abuse occurring during that period.
Howard Carrithers Wimer and Universe Wimer are each being held on a $500,000 bond at the Sumner County Jail. Both defendants are scheduled for arraignment in Circuit Court on Nov. 6.
The players
Howard Carrithers Wimer
A 76-year-old Hendersonville resident charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse.
Universe Wimer
A 52-year-old Hendersonville resident charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse.
Passion Wimer
A 10-year-old victim who died on Nov. 24, 2024.
The details
The grand jury alleges the couple murdered 10-year-old Passion Wimer during the perpetration or attempted perpetration of aggravated child neglect in November 2024. The 76-year-old Howard Carrithers Wimer and 52-year-old Universe Wimer were booked into the Sumner County Jail on Oct. 13, 2026.
Timeline
November 2024: Alleged perpetration of aggravated child neglect and murder.
Nov. 24, 2024: Death of 10-year-old Passion Wimer.
Oct. 13, 2026: Defendants taken into custody and booked into jail.
Nov. 6: Scheduled arraignment in Circuit Court.
Legal Context
The prosecution of this case aligns with the Tennessee legal standards for first-degree felony murder charges. It follows a pattern set by state law for charging homicide occurring during the commission of another felony, such as child neglect.
While the investigation remains centered on the legal proceedings against the suspects, the case highlights local enforcement of child protection statutes. Residents can follow the upcoming court hearings for further updates on the legal status of the accused.
The takeaway
The legal system now moves toward a formal arraignment to address the severe charges filed against the couple. Community members are encouraged to monitor future court announcements for transparency regarding the judicial process.
What happens next
The defendants are scheduled to be arraigned in Circuit Court on Nov. 6, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local investigations in our Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Main Street Media of Tennessee -.
