This morning, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office formally booked Nicholas Loving on an additional charge of open murder. This charge follows four months of investigation and the conclusion of the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office investigation, which determined that Izabella Loving’s manner of death was a homicide.
Sheriff Darin Balaam released the following statement:
“Today is the next step in finding justice for Izzy. This heart wrenching case of child abuse and cruelty deeply affected not only our community, but also our dispatchers, the deputies responding, investigators, crime scene investigators, crime lab, the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, members of the District Attorney’s Office and now those involved within the court system. From day one, I made the commitment that we would labor relentlessly to investigate this case and work tirelessly to be the voice for and bring justice to Izzy. The collaboration throughout this case so far has been outstanding. As this case continues to move forward, we will not stop devoting ourselves to Izzy and achieving justice for her.
“Lastly, I would like to mention one thing we have learned from this case – and a major reason I am making this statement today. Right now, there is a child in our community or any number of communities in our nation who is being abused or neglected. I’m pleading with every parent, adult and our society that we must commit to being active advocates for our children. ‘If you see something, say something.’ I cannot emphasize this enough.
“Every child in every home – no matter their socio-economic status, race, gender, or nationality – deserves to live their childhood free of abuse and neglect.
“I know that for the men and women who work throughout the Sheriff’s Office, Izzy and so many other tragic cases they have witnessed or investigated are their constant motivation to be that advocate and protector of our children and I’m asking every member of our community to continue to be as well.
“To the individuals who called on the Izzy case – I want to say to you, although we had the tragic outcome, thank you for being her advocates. We join you and will continue to be her advocates throughout the entire criminal justice process.
“Given the ongoing investigation and sensitive nature of this event, we will have no additional comment today.”
District Attorney Chris Hicks released the following statement:
“My entire office stands with the community in mourning the heartbreaking loss of Izabella Loving. Her death is a terrible tragedy that has shaken us all. I want to express my deep gratitude to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office and the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office for their relentless efforts and unwavering dedication throughout this difficult investigation. From the onset, my team has worked hand-in-hand with investigators to ensure that every step taken in this case is thorough, deliberate, and grounded in the pursuit of truth. Justice for Izzy remains our highest priority.
“Based on the evidence gathered so far, we have officially charged Andrea Loving with Child Abuse or Neglect with Substantial Bodily Harm or Death. In addition, we will be filing a formal charge of First-Degree Murder against Nicholas Loving this week.
“While we must keep certain details confidential to protect the integrity of the ongoing legal process, we remain committed to transparency and will continue to share updates with the public as we are legally able.”
