An Oklahoma man who had previously admitted to assaulting his child’s mother has been arrested on charges of allegedly murdering their 9-month-old.
Hunter Allen Smiley, 25, from Newcastle, was taken into custody this month following the infant’s death in the hospital, as reported by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI).
On April 10, the Newcastle Police Department was dispatched following a distress call about an unresponsive 9-month-old at a residence. Officers found the baby under Smiley’s supervision upon their arrival.
The child was soon rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention, where he exhibited signs of internal brain bleeding and hemorrhaging behind his eyes, according to local reports from KFOR and KOKH-TV.
The baby succumbed to his injuries two days later, on April 12. The specific cause and manner of death are still undisclosed.
Before the infant’s death, the Newcastle Police Department had sought OSBI’s assistance to probe possible child abuse, during which OSBI special agents interviewed Smiley.
Based on the findings of the ongoing investigation, Smiley was arrested on April 15, three days following the baby’s death, the OSBI confirmed.
He faces first-degree murder charges and was incarcerated in McClain County Jail that same night.
Court documents reported by KFOR reveal Smiley had a history of abusive behavior towards the infant’s mother.
In January 2023, he was detained for domestic assault and battery against her while she was pregnant with their son, the news station reported. He later pleaded guilty to assaulting her with fragments of a door he had shattered during a drunken altercation.
Cleveland County District Attorney Greg Mashburn indicated that Smiley was arraigned on April 25, as reported by KFOR and KOKH-TV. His bond was set at $5 million and includes stipulations such as no contact with the victim’s family.
Should Smiley be released on bond, he will be mandated to wear an ankle monitor and forbidden from accessing weapons.
In remarks to KFOR and KOKH-TV, Mashburn stated, “It is profoundly sad to see a life cut so short.”
“We will pursue this case vigorously in court to represent this voiceless victim,” he added. “Thanks to the Newcastle Police Department and the OSBI for their diligent efforts in this case so we can pursue justice for B.S.”
The OSBI informed PEOPLE on April 28 that there have been no further developments in the case.
Mashburn has yet to reply to PEOPLE’s inquiry for a comment. There is currently no information available regarding Smiley’s legal representation.
