7-Day-Old Indiana Baby Dies After Family Dog Inflicts 180 Bite Wounds

A seven-day-old Indiana baby died after being attacked by the family’s dog inside a home in Markle, Indiana, in a tragedy that has also led to criminal charges against several members of his family.

The infant, Jason Anthony Weaver, suffered approximately 180 bite wounds when he was attacked by Chomp, a roughly 5-year-old Husky–Pit Bull mix. An examination also found devastating internal injuries, including brain hemorrhages, fractured ribs and damage to his lungs.

According to police reports cited by local and national outlets, Jason’s father, Austin Kinsey, told investigators he had been playing video games in the same room as his newborn son before briefly leaving to speak with other family members.

Jason’s grandfather later heard noises coming from the room and discovered Chomp dragging the infant. Family members called for emergency help, while officers attempted CPR, but Jason could not be saved.

Investigators also described deeply troubling conditions inside the family home. Police reported encountering trash, dirty dishes, clothing, insects and a strong odor of animals, garbage and dirt throughout the property. Bugs were reportedly found near the baby’s belongings, including his car seat.

The Huntington County Health Department subsequently determined that the residence was unfit for habitation, and the family was ordered to leave the property. Other dogs were also removed from the home.

Court documents reportedly indicate that family members had previously described Chomp as gentle with the baby, but also acknowledged that the dog could be jealous and had displayed aggressive behavior. The dog had reportedly bitten people before the fatal attack.

Chomp was later euthanized.

The baby’s death also resulted in criminal proceedings against members of the family.

Jason’s father, Austin Kinsey, was initially charged with two counts of neglect and a charge related to harboring a non-immunized dog that caused an injury. As part of a plea agreement, the more serious neglect charge was dropped, and Kinsey was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Other family members, including Jason’s mother, Violet Weaver, and several relatives, continue to face related legal proceedings. Weaver is scheduled for a change-of-plea hearing later this month, while cases involving other relatives remain active.

Jason was only a week old.

His death has left his family and community confronting an unimaginable loss, while the criminal cases continue to examine the circumstances that preceded the attack.

For investigators and prosecutors, the case now centers not only on the fatal dog attack but also on the conditions inside the home and the decisions surrounding the care and supervision of a newborn.

A tiny baby who had barely begun his life is gone, and the tragedy has lef

Source: 21 Alive news