An infant on life support has died. His Lakewood father has been charged with murder

A heartbreaking incident in Lakewood, Washington, has resulted in the death of a 2-month-old boy who was on life support after being allegedly shaken by his father, Fernandez Manaia Fruean. Initially charged with first-degree assault on December 19, 2024, Fruean's charges were increased to two counts of second-degree murder after the infant's passing just three days later. According to prosecutors, Fruean shook the baby vigorously for five minutes in a fit of rage, neglecting to seek medical attention for six hours afterward, during which time the infant suffered significant injuries, including a brain bleed and multiple fractures. Fruean, who had a prior conviction for child mistreatment involving his daughter, is being held on $2 million bail and has pleaded not guilty. The baby’s aunt expressed her family's desire for justice, highlighting the emotional toll on the surviving sibling who must live with the knowledge of her brother's preventable death.

The case raises serious questions about child safety and the legal system's ability to protect vulnerable children. As the court proceedings unfold, the community is left grappling with the tragic loss and the implications for child welfare in Washington state.