A 6-year-old boy died from blunt force injuries, now an adult is accused of murder

A man is accused of murder in connection to the death of a 6-year-old boy, prosecutors said.

On April 2, 2021, police in Stafford Township, New Jersey, responded to a hospital for the child’s death, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

The next day an autopsy showed the victim died from blunt force trauma.

Investigators determined the injuries were caused by Christopher Gregor, 29. He was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Gregor was booked into prison but released on bail, according to prosecutors.

On March 3, 2022, a state expert said the child died from blunt force injuries to the chest and abdomen and the manner of death was homicide. Police said the child was in Gregor’s custody when the injuries happened.

On March 9, Gregor was arrested and charged with murder. Investigators did not detail the relationship between Gregor and the child or how the child was injured.

“I’m thankful for the collective effort of all of the law enforcement officers that participated in this very thorough and comprehensive investigation over the past 11 months. Today is the first step in bringing the person we believe is responsible for this young boy’s death to justice,” Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said. “This truly was a team effort, and I’m grateful for the determination and resolve exhibited by all the agencies involved.”