Arkansas – Arkansas parents have been charged in connection with the death of a 2-month-old infant following a months-long investigation that authorities said determined the child’s death was a homicide caused by severe head trauma.
Pine Bluff Police responded on January 3, 2025, to an unresponsive infant at a residence. The child was transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center, where the infant was later pronounced dead despite life-saving efforts.
The Arkansas State Crime Laboratory determined the cause of death was craniocerebral trauma, consistent with blunt force head injuries. Investigators ruled the death a homicide following forensic review and an extended investigation by detectives.
According to a probable cause affidavit cited in reporting, investigators interviewed Gabrielle Ayers and Timothy Martin on January 8, 2025.
The affidavit states Martin allegedly told investigators he struck the infant in the face while removing the child from a car seat on December 21, 2024. The document further states he was intoxicated at the time.
The affidavit also reports investigators determined neither adult sought medical care for the child following the injury, allegedly to avoid involvement from state authorities.
Following the investigation, Jefferson County prosecutors formally charged both Ayers and Martin with first-degree murder and endangering the welfare of a minor on April 13, 2026.
Ayers was arrested on April 19, 2026, after being located by the Benton Police Department and taken into custody without incident. Martin was arrested on April 21, 2026, following a public tip and assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the United States Marshals Service.
Both suspects are being held at the Jefferson County Jail on a $100,000 bond. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.