Bella Vista Teen Accused of Murder Seeks Juvenile Court Transfer
Attorney Hanna Murphy is pushing for her client, 17-year-old Bryce Anderson, to be tried as a juvenile rather than an adult in connection with the death of his four-month-old son. Anderson has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and first-degree domestic battery.
The Tragic Incident
The baby was found unconscious and not breathing on March 4. Anderson told police that he fed the baby and, when it finished 75% of the bottle, the baby’s eyes closed and his body became limp. Anderson initially thought the baby had fallen asleep but panicked when it remained unresponsive. He then contacted his girlfriend and mother before calling 911.
Medical Investigation
Medical staff initially believed the incident to be a cardiac event, but subsequent scans revealed a brain bleed and other injuries consistent with shaken baby syndrome. The baby died on April 7 from the injuries sustained.
Seeking Juvenile Jurisdiction
Anderson’s attorney filed a motion in July to transfer the case to an extended juvenile jurisdiction. This would allow for a more rehabilitative approach while still carrying the possibility of prison time if convicted. A hearing on the transfer issue is set for October 2. Anderson is currently being held on a 0,000 bond.
