Seeking Transfer to Juvenile Court
Bryce Alijha Anderson, a 17-year-old from Bella Vista, faces charges of first-degree domestic battery and first-degree murder in the death of his four-month-old son. His legal team has taken steps to potentially alter the course of his case by seeking a transfer from adult to juvenile court.
Initial Events and Investigation
On March 4, officers were notified that a four-month-old baby was unconscious and not breathing. Anderson, who was caring for the baby, explained to police that the child vomited and had a small amount of blood after falling asleep. Initially, it was thought to be a cardiac event.
However, a social worker from a hospital in Kansas City later informed investigators that the child had a brain bleed, suggesting non-accidental trauma. Further investigation revealed that the baby’s injuries were consistent with shaken baby syndrome.
Legal Proceedings
Anderson has pleaded not guilty to the charges. His attorney, Hanna Murphy, filed a motion in July to transfer his case to an extended juvenile jurisdiction. The preliminary hearing is set for August.
Bryce Anderson remains in custody on a 0,000 bond as the legal process unfolds.
