Lakewood Father Charged with Murder After Infant Son Dies from Alleged Abuse

In a heartbreaking incident in Lakewood, a 2-month-old boy has died after being placed on life support due to severe injuries allegedly inflicted by his father, Fernandez Manaia Fruean. Initially charged with first-degree assault, Fruean now faces two counts of second-degree murder and homicide by abuse following the child's death shortly after Christmas. Prosecutors allege that Fruean shook the infant in an effort to silence his crying, resulting in critical injuries that included a brain bleed and multiple fractures. Fruean, who has a prior conviction for child mistreatment, remains in custody with a bail set at $2 million. His family is demanding justice as they process the tragic loss, stressing the importance of safeguarding children in Washington.

The case shines a spotlight on the urgent need for effective measures to protect vulnerable children from abuse. The Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office is still pending the release of the child's identity and the cause of death. This tragic event underscores the critical issues surrounding child safety and the consequences of domestic violence.