• An 18-year-old Florida father, indicted for first-degree murder, faces allegations of causing fatal injuries to his 11-week-old son. Prosecutors argue evidence reveals a disturbing timeline leading to the tragic death. Investigators detail brain injuries and fractures that contradict the father’s account of events. The case has sparked public attention over child welfare and justice for the young victim.

CITRUS COUNTY, FL (TDR) — An 18-year-old Florida father has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder following the tragic death of his infant son. Prosecutors allege that Hector Jose Rios Guzman IV caused injuries leading to the fatality of his 11-week-old son, Ezrial Lazaro Rios McCallister. The indictment, announced on July 2, comes more than nine months after the baby’s death in September 2022.

Timeline of the Incident

According to investigators, Guzman was at home with his son on September 23, 2022, while the infant’s mother was at work. Guzman said he gave the baby a bottle and placed him in an electric bassinet after he fell asleep. He then began playing a video game in the same room, just a few feet away.

Guzman told authorities that he heard the baby gasp for air and found him unresponsive. He began CPR and called his mother-in-law, who had just arrived at the family’s home. Both attempted to resuscitate the infant before emergency services arrived.

Medical Findings and Investigation

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The baby was transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries after being intubated overnight. Medical personnel discovered the infant had a brain bleed, a broken right collarbone, bruises on his lower back, and redness on the back of his head. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office reports that the injuries raised immediate concerns.

The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide. However, the precise cause of death was not included in the report shared with investigators. Guzman was arrested by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office on June 27, 2023, and now faces a charge of first-degree murder.

Statements and Legal Developments

Guzman maintained that the baby had pre-existing breathing issues stemming from complications during birth, which occasionally required him to hold the child upright to assist with breathing. Despite his claims, investigators concluded that the baby’s injuries were inconsistent with accidental causes.

The baby’s grandmother described Guzman as a “good father” who was attentive to his son, according to the incident report. However, prosecutors are focused on the evidence of trauma, which they say contradicts Guzman’s account.

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The State Attorney’s Office for the Fifth Judicial Circuit is moving forward with the case, and Guzman remains in custody as of this report. Further court proceedings are expected in the coming weeks.

What’s Next?

This tragic case underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable children and holding individuals accountable for preventable harm. The legal proceedings will reveal the full scope of the events leading to Ezrial’s death. Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for updates on this case.

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