Florida Man Indicted on Murder Charge in Infant’s Death
A Florida man, James Westervelt, has been indicted on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of a 6-month-old infant. The indictment came two years after the child's death. Westervelt allegedly admitted to investigators that he used a…
Charlotte, NC, August 1, 2026 —
Fort Lauderdale, FL – James Westervelt has been indicted on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of a 6-month-old infant. The indictment was handed down two years after the child’s passing.
According to authorities, Westervelt allegedly confessed to investigators that he had used a leaf blower on the infant when the child was approximately 2 months old. Westervelt reportedly told investigators he found the act to be humorous.
Medical professionals determined that the infant’s death was a result of blunt head trauma, consistent with being forcefully bounced. The specific circumstances surrounding the cause of death were established by doctors.
The indictment follows a two-year period after the infant’s death. Further details regarding the timeline of the investigation and the events leading to the indictment were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by WCJB Staff on www.wbtv.com, see more information here.
