Teenage Father Charged with Murder Following Infant Daughter’s Death in New Bern, N.C.
New Bern, N.C. – A teenage father in New Bern, North Carolina, is facing upgraded charges of murder following the death of his infant daughter.
According to the New Bern Police Department, Xhamaria Gardner, an 18-day-old infant, passed away on Tuesday at ECU Health Medical Center. Authorities initially charged her father, 19-year-old Jordan Gardner, with felony child abuse. However, following the baby’s death, law enforcement upgraded the charge to murder on Wednesday morning.
The case originated on January 26th, when first responders were called to a distressing situation involving the infant. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found Xhamaria struggling to breathe and in critical condition. The baby was transported for urgent medical care, but despite medical intervention, she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Medical examinations revealed that Xhamaria had suffered trauma, which authorities determined was likely a result of child abuse. Following an investigation, police arrested Jordan Gardner and initially charged him with felony child abuse. However, as the severity of the case escalated with the infant’s passing, authorities determined that the circumstances warranted an upgraded charge of murder.
Jordan Gardner is currently being held without bond. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement officials continue to gather evidence related to the case.
The New Bern Police Department has urged anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
