Morgan Thornton, 35, has been charged with capital murder in the death of her infant son, Jonah, after a horrific incident that occurred overnight between July 31 and August 1. At her preliminary hearing, an investigator from the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office provided chilling testimony regarding the crime.
Discovery of the Crime Scene
Investigator Martin Evans testified that when he arrived at Thornton’s home in Athens around 1:30 a.m. on August 1, he found Thornton standing outside the house covered in blood.
Upon entering the room where Jonah was sleeping, Evans reported seeing bloodstains across the room. He also stated that Thornton’s husband claimed she had woken him up and said she had killed a “demon.”
Medics’ Testimony and Thornton’s Changing Statements
Despite paramedics finding Jonah with a faint pulse and rushing him to the hospital, he was later pronounced dead. Thornton allegedly told the medics that she had beaten her son, shouting as they performed CPR.
However, when questioned the next morning, she gave conflicting statements, claiming she had swaddled Jonah and put him to bed, only to later attempt CPR.
Evidence of Intoxication and Alcohol Consumption
Thornton appeared intoxicated, and investigators found two pints of vodka and two “shooters” of alcohol at the scene. While blood test results are still pending, this evidence suggests that Thornton may have been under the influence at the time of the alleged crime.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences
Thornton is currently being held without bond in Limestone County. If convicted of capital murder, she could face the death penalty under Alabama law.
