A Florida father has been indicted on a murder charge after authorities said he used a leaf blower on his infant son in what turned out to be a fatal prank.
James Westervelt III, 38, of Marion County, was indicted on first-degree felony murder, according to records filed by prosecutors on July 30. The filing noted that additional charges were pending.
Deputies responded to a home in August 2024 for a report of an unresponsive 6-month-old infant, WESH 2 reported. The child — Westervelt’s son — was transported to a hospital and put on life support, but he died a few days later.
The boy’s death was determined to have been caused by shaken baby syndrome.
Westervelt allegedly told investigators that he used a leaf blower on his young child because “he thought it was funny,” WCJB reported.
Deputies also reportedly found video showing Westervelt using the yard tool on the infant’s face when the child was even younger, according to the outlet.
The Independent has contacted prosecutors, an attorney representing Westervelt and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for comment.
Marion County is located in North Central Florida and encompasses the city of Ocala.
