Macon, GA – A Bibb County man is now facing a murder charge following the death of a six-month-old infant after a medical emergency at a Fairmont Avenue residence earlier this week.
According to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a home on Fairmont Avenue around 8:26 p.m. Wednesday after a report of a newborn infant not breathing. Paramedics arrived on scene and transported the child to Atrium Health Navicent Children’s Hospital for emergency treatment.
Investigators said 24-year-old Willie George Northern Jr., of Kathleen, was at the residence at the time and reported that he had been watching his girlfriend’s infant son. Northern Jr. told deputies he fed, swaddled, and laid the child down to rest, later discovering the infant was unresponsive and calling 911.
While deputies were at the hospital, investigators learned the six-month-old male infant had suffered severe injuries and was in critical condition. Due to the extent of the injuries, the child was airlifted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for further treatment.
Northern Jr. was transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center for questioning. Following the investigation, authorities identified him as a suspect in connection with the infant’s condition. He was taken into custody and charged with First Degree Cruelty to Children and Tampering with Evidence early Thursday at 2:00 a.m.
According to medical staff, the infant succumbed to his injuries at 11:03 p.m. Thursday. Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones confirmed the next of kin has been notified.
An investigator has since obtained a murder warrant for Northern Jr. in connection with the child’s death. He remains in custody at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center. The investigation is ongoing.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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