Event Brief
Florida Dad Charged With First-Degree Murder
Filed: Aug 02, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET
Summary: Ocala man faces first-degree murder charge in 2024 death of 6-month-old son after alleged leaf blower incident.
WHO: James Westervelt, 38, of Ocala; his 6-month-old son
WHAT: First-degree murder charge filed in connection with the infant’s death; prior child abuse charges tied to alleged leaf blower incident
WHEN: Aug 02, 2026 at 6:17 PM ET
WHERE: Ocala, Florida
WHY: Prosecutors allege the infant died from blunt force trauma after violent shaking; video reportedly showed Westervelt using a leaf blower on the child.
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