Additional Coverage:
- 7-day-old Indiana baby died in unimaginable horror after being left with family dog ‘Chomp’ (themirror.com)
A tragic incident in Markle, Indiana, has resulted in the death of a 7-day-old infant, Jason A. Weaver, following an attack by the family dog, Chomp. Authorities have since charged multiple family members in connection with the baby’s death.
On September 4, 2025, police responded to a home in the small town located approximately 25 miles southwest of Fort Wayne after reports of a baby experiencing breathing difficulties. Upon arrival, officers noted severe neglect and unsanitary conditions inside the residence, including a strong odor of animal waste, trash, and dirt.
Despite immediate attempts at resuscitation by responding officers and paramedics, baby Jason succumbed to his injuries. The subsequent autopsy revealed over 180 abrasions and numerous bruises across his head, neck, torso, back, and limbs, along with serious internal trauma such as brain hemorrhages, rib fractures, and lung tears.
Court records indicate that Jason’s father, Austin Kinsey, was occupied playing video games and briefly left the room. Shortly thereafter, Jason’s grandfather, Timothy Kinsey, entered carrying the infant, urgently requesting medical assistance. Timothy reported hearing noises from the kitchen and discovered Chomp dragging the baby.
Family members described Chomp as previously gentle with Jason, often interacting positively with him. However, they also acknowledged the dog’s aggressive tendencies and history of biting incidents. Following one such event, the baby’s grandmother, Rita Wickey, reportedly suggested that someone keep a gun in the home to address future problems with the dog.
The condition of the home contributed to the case’s severity. Officers described the environment as heavily cluttered with trash, dirty dishes, and clothes, alongside infestations of cockroaches and flying insects, even affecting Jason’s car seat. Due to these conditions, the Huntington County Health Department issued a vacate order with a deadline just days after the infant’s death.
All six family members connected to the household have been arrested and are currently held at the Huntington County Jail. The charges include various counts of neglect and harboring a non-immunized dog that caused injury. The individuals charged are:
- Austin Kinsey (father): two counts of neglect, one count of harboring a non-immunized dog
- Violet Weaver (mother): one count of neglect
- Timothy Kinsey (grandfather): one count of neglect
- Tony Kinsey (uncle): one count of neglect
- Michael Wickey (step-grandfather): one count of neglect, one count of harboring a non-immunized dog
- Rita Wickey (grandmother): one count of neglect, one count of harboring a non-immunized dog
Following the incident, Chomp and other dogs were removed from the home and taken to the Huntington County Animal Shelter. The dog exhibited no signs of aggression or illness during this time and was later euthanized. A veterinary necropsy found Chomp to be in ideal body condition with no underlying health issues.
This heartbreaking case highlights serious concerns related to child welfare and animal safety, prompting ongoing investigations and legal proceedings.