Cache dad accused of killing baby

NORTH LOGAN, Cache County — Prosecutors have filed a child-abuse homicide charge against a man accused of violently shaking his 4-month-old son and causing the boy's death.

In addition to the first-degree felony charge, Francisco Javier Martinez also faces two counts of child abuse, a second-degree felony.

His son, Jesus Yandel Martinez, was removed from life support Sunday at 9:30 p.m. and died shortly after 11 p.m.

Police and paramedics were called to the Martinez home near 2500 North and 300 East on Wednesday because the baby was not breathing, said North Park Police Sgt. John Italasano. The child was initially taken to Logan Regional Hospital, then flown to Primary Children's Medical Center in critical condition.

"We think it's 'shaken baby,' " Italasano said, adding that doctors told investigators it was "pretty violent (shaking) at the time of the incident."

Doctors told police the child had sustained severe internal injuries to his head. The doctors also found evidence that the boy had suffered previous injuries to his ribs and a broken leg, Italasano said. Those injuries were in different stages of healing.

Police arrested Martinez on Friday in Salt Lake City, based on their investigation and the information provided by hospital staff.

"We interviewed and interrogated him, but he's never admitted to anything," Italasano said.

The sergeant said Martinez's wife has not been cooperating with investigators, but he doesn't believe she was aware of the alleged abuse.

Martinez remains in the Cache County Jail.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a hold on Martinez because he is believed to be living in the country illegally, Italasano said. An initial court appearance has not been scheduled.

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