A Florida father is facing a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of his infant son, nearly two years after the child died in a hospital following a serious incident.

James Westervelt, 38, was charged Thursday in connection with the death of his six-month-old son. According to authorities, the child was just two months old when Westervelt allegedly used a leaf blower near the infant, reportedly saying that he thought it would be fun.

The baby was later hospitalized and placed on life support before dying in August 2024. According to reports citing the investigation, the child’s death was attributed to severe blunt force trauma.

Westervelt had previously faced child abuse charges related to the incident and remains in custody in Marion County as the case moves forward. He is scheduled to return to court in September.

The case has drawn renewed attention following the murder charge filed nearly two years after the infant’s death. As the legal proceedings continue, prosecutors are expected to present evidence surrounding the circumstances of the child’s death, while Westervelt remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Court records also show that Westervelt had previously been charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in May. A pretrial hearing related to those charges is scheduled for August 5.

The investigation and court proceedings remain ongoing as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of the infant.