Three Siblings Tied Up and Starved Their 18-Year-Old Brother to Death, Then Left His Body to 'Swell and Smell' for Days Before Reporting It, According to Police

Iowa, USA – In a deeply disturbing case, three brothers from Iowa have been arrested and charged after their 18-year-old sibling, Ezekiel Baseme, was found dead inside their home, tied to a bed and reportedly denied food and water.

The young man had schizophrenia, and authorities say the brothers restrained him after a mental health crisis — a decision that tragically led to his death.

According to police and local news outlet KCRG, officers found Ezekiel Baseme’s decomposing body on November 9, 2024, inside the house he shared with his older brothers:

Azane Baseme, 23
Pierre Baseme, 26
Christian Baseme, 30

Authorities say the brothers did not report his death for several days after it occurred.

Why Was Ezekiel Restrained?

The investigation revealed that Ezekiel had been showing signs of severe mental illness, including hearing voices and hallucinations. On November 3, he reportedly experienced a violent schizophrenic episode, during which he became a threat to the family and even allegedly confronted a neighbor.

His brothers claimed they tied him to a bed to protect both him and others. However, after restraining him, they reportedly stopped giving him food and water.

When they tried to offer him water, Ezekiel allegedly became aggressive and fought back, making them hesitant to continue trying.

What Led to His Death?

According to the brothers’ own statements:

Nov. 5–6: Ezekiel was still moving and making noises.
Nov. 6 night: He suddenly stopped breathing, but they said his heart was still beating.
Nov. 7: They noticed he had become cold to the touch.
Nov. 8: His body began to swell and smell, leading them to believe he was dead.
Nov. 9: They finally called the authorities.