A Pennsylvania father has been sentenced to 15 to 30 years in prison for the tragic death of his 4-month-old son, according to authorities.
A 31-year-old man named Tyler Sullivan was recently sentenced after pleading guilty to third-degree murder and endangering the welfare of a child. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, Aug. 27, as per a press release from the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.
According to prosecutors, Sullivan allegedly shook his 4-month old son in a violent manner on multiple occasions, including May 24, 2023, and several times leading up to that date.
On that night, police officers were called to a residence in Bristol Borough, Pa., after receiving a report of a baby in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, they discovered the infant was not breathing and had become cold to the touch, according to the release. Emergency personnel administered CPR to the infant, who was subsequently transported to Lower Bucks Hospital. Tragically, the baby was declared deceased shortly after midnight.
Prosecutors have reported that a doctor who examined the baby observed multiple injuries, such as contusions, bruising, and abrasions. According to the release, the doctor described the injuries as consistent with a child who had been physically abused.
During the sentencing hearing, the mother of the baby expressed the profound impact her son’s death has had on her, revealing that she continues to be haunted by nightmares of that tragic day, as reported by the prosecutor’s office.
The mother expressed her deep desire for her baby to have a long, happy, and wonderful life, according to the release.
A GoFundMe campaign was set up to support the mother who is mourning the loss of her daughter. “This is an experience that no parent would ever want to endure,” expressed Grace Davis, the organizer of the fundraiser.
Before his sentencing, Sullivan made a statement expressing his deep remorse and admitting his guilt, as reported by the prosecutor’s office.
As part of his sentence, Sullivan was also directed by the judge to receive mental health treatment.