A father in Indiana, United States, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after the family dog fatally attacked his one-week-old son. The baby, Jason Anthony Weaver, died on September 4, 2025, at the family’s home in Markle.

The attack involved a five-year-old husky and pit bull mix named Chomp. The child’s father, Austin Kinsey, told police he had been in the same room playing video games before briefly stepping away to speak with relatives.

The baby’s grandfather later heard noises and discovered the dog with the infant. Police officers who responded attempted to revive the child, but he could not be saved. The dog was later euthanised.

Investigators reported poor living conditions at the home, including large amounts of trash and debris. Court documents also noted that the dog had previously shown aggression toward animals and people, even though the family had described it as gentle with the baby.

Kinsey initially faced neglect charges. Under a plea agreement, the highest charge was dropped, and he received a 16-year prison sentence on Monday. Related cases involving the baby’s mother and other family members remain pending.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper