RALEIGH, N.C. -- A man charged with murder in connection with the death of a 2-year-old appeared in court Friday.

Discuss this story

DonJuan Cassadary Smith, Jr., 24, was arrested after officers were called to the 3300 block of Hewberry Lane shortly before 7:30 p.m. Wednesday to check on the toddler.

Smith was initially charged with manslaughter and was later charged with murder following an investigation by the Major Crimes Task Force.

Smith was issued no bond or bail. He faces a first degree murder charge that can possibly carry a life sentence.

He was given a court appointed attorney Friday, and will next appear in court June 5. 
 
He remains at the Wake County Jail under no bond.