A heartbreaking story has emerged from Kentucky, where a young father will spend the next two decades in prison for the tragic death of his newborn son. In a shocking fit of rage, 32-year-old Anthony Trice fatally punched his one-month-old baby boy, De’Anthony Trice, after losing his temper while playing a video game.
A judge in Jefferson Circuit Court sentenced Trice to 20 years in state prison for the 2019 incident. Originally, Trice faced charges of domestic violence murder and first-degree child abuse. However, in a deal with prosecutors, he entered an Alford plea to a reduced charge of first-degree manslaughter. By taking this plea, Trice did not admit guilt but acknowledged that the evidence against him could likely lead to a conviction.
The tragedy took place on May 3, 2019, at Trice’s home on West Jefferson Street in Louisville. According to police reports, Trice was in his bedroom playing a video game when he began losing, causing him to explode in anger. He threw the game controller in frustration and, still consumed by rage, punched baby De’Anthony in the head with his fist.
The infant’s cries filled the room after the blow. Trice then tried to calm him down, picking him up and carrying him into the kitchen. While on the way, he accidentally dropped the baby to the floor. After picking him up again, Trice prepared a bottle for De’Anthony and placed him back in the bedroom, using a blanket to prop the bottle in the infant’s mouth. Leaving the baby alone, Trice went to the bathroom.
When he returned, he noticed his son was struggling and immediately called 911. Paramedics arrived and rushed De’Anthony to Norton Children’s Hospital. Despite medical efforts, the baby’s injuries were too severe. He passed away two days later.
Before help arrived, Trice spoke with the child’s grandmother, Tanjia Howlett, over the phone. She later shared that conversation, saying Trice told her to head to the hospital because the baby was “throwing up milk.” Howlett said she was puzzled, wondering why he’d rush a baby to the hospital for something like choking on milk.
De’Anthony’s death left his family and community grieving over a tragedy that could have been prevented. The heartbreaking case highlights the devastating consequences of uncontrolled anger and the importance of patience, especially when caring for vulnerable children.
Trice’s sentencing marks a somber end to a case that shocked many, as it sheds light on the fragile nature of life and the dire consequences of moments of unchecked frustration.
