In a disturbing and heart-wrenching case from Oklahoma, Hunter Smiley, a 25-year-old man, stands accused of perpetrating heinous acts of violence against his girlfriend and their infant son, Briggs. According to prosecutors, Smiley’s alleged crimes spanned from assaulting the mother while she was pregnant to ultimately murdering their helpless baby boy when he was just 10 months old.
The grim saga began in January 2023 when Smiley was arrested for assaulting the mother of his unborn child. Reports suggest that Smiley, fueled by alcohol and anger, viciously attacked the expectant mother, using pieces of a broken door as weapons. He was subsequently charged with domestic assault and battery against a pregnant woman, pleading guilty to the charges.
Tragically, the violence did not end there. Prosecutors claim that Smiley escalated his brutality, culminating in the senseless murder of their infant son, Briggs. Little Briggs, described as an adorable baby boy, was found non-responsive on April 10, prompting a frantic call to the Newcastle Police Department. Rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, doctors discovered internal bleeding in his brain and hemorrhaging behind his eyes. Despite medical efforts, Briggs succumbed to his injuries just two days later, on April 12.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they encountered Smiley, who was reportedly armed with a gun. He was swiftly taken into custody and booked into the McClain County Jail on a first-degree murder charge. The severity of the accusations against Smiley prompted a bond to be set at $5 million, with a ‘no contact order’ issued to prevent him from interacting with the victim’s family.
Court documents shed light on the turbulent relationship between Smiley and the baby’s mother. A ‘no contact’ protective order had initially been filed against Smiley, presumably in response to his prior violence. However, the mother later requested that the order be lifted, purportedly to allow Smiley to participate in the birth of their child.
It’s a tragic tale that has left a community reeling in shock and sorrow. District Attorney Greg Mashburn expressed the gravity of the situation, vowing to pursue justice for Briggs. “It is tragic when a life is taken so early,” Mashburn lamented, emphasizing their commitment to seek justice for the innocent victim.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Smiley remains incarcerated, awaiting his next court appearance scheduled for May 22. His arraignment marked the beginning of what promises to be a rigorous legal battle, with prosecutors determined to hold him accountable for his alleged atrocities.
In the wake of such unspeakable tragedy, the community mourns the loss of young Briggs, a precious life taken far too soon. Yet, amidst the grief, there is a collective resolve to ensure that his memory is honored through the pursuit of justice and accountability for those responsible for his untimely demise.
No copyright infringement intended
Sources: AWM