Authorities in Nebraska have arrested a 46-year-old woman on charges of child abuse following a harrowing incident involving a severely malnourished 12-year-old boy. The arrest took place on Thursday, more than two weeks after the boy was admitted to a hospital in critical condition.

The child, shockingly underweight at just 47 pounds, was brought to a Lincoln hospital on January 12, with his core body temperature alarmingly low at 80 degrees. For context, an average 12-year-old boy typically weighs around 90 pounds, highlighting the severity of his condition.

The boy’s dire situation prompted an immediate transfer to Children’s Hospital in Omaha via airlift, as reported by KOLN. Upon examination, doctors diagnosed him with septic shock and pneumonia, conditions that underscored the critical nature of his health.

Further investigation by Lincoln Police revealed troubling signs that suggested the boy had endured months of neglect, starvation, and possible torture. This led to the arrest of Angela Lowe, who now faces serious charges including assault, false imprisonment, and child abuse.

Medical staff described the boy’s condition as dire when he first arrived at the hospital. A nurse noted his extreme weakness, stating he was unable to lift himself. Despite initial fears for his survival, the boy’s condition has since been upgraded to critical but stable as of Thursday, offering a glimmer of hope amidst a deeply concerning situation.

A nurse said the boy was too weak to even lift himself up when he was brought into the hospital, and doctors did not expect him to live. As of Thursday, however, he was in critical but stable condition.

Police did not explain the connection between Lowe and boy but said she is no longer his legal guardian. He is now in state custody, and Lowe is barred from contacting him.