A Florida man has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his six-month-old son two years ago, authorities said.
The defendant was identified as James Westervelt, 38, who faces the new charge since Thursday, after the investigation into the case advanced from the initial accusations of alleged child abuse.
The baby remained hospitalized before dying
According to the investigation, the child was two months old when he suffered the injuries that led to his hospitalization.
According to authorities, Westervelt reportedly stated that he used a leaf blower to direct air toward the baby because he thought it would be “fun.” Investigators maintain that the minor also suffered injuries consistent with a strong shake or rebound.
The boy was placed on life support, but died in August 2024.
According to the information cited by the authorities, the cause of death was blunt trauma caused by sudden rebound movements.
The accused remains detained
Westervelt remains in custody in Marion County and is due back in court in September on the charge of first-degree murder.
Additionally, court records show the man also faces separate proceedings for alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, charges filed in May. The next hearing in that case is scheduled for August 5.
So far, neither the Marion County Sheriff's Office nor the defendant's attorney had issued public statements about the new charge.
