KEENE, New Hampshire — A 22-year-old New Hampshire man, Annthoni Bliss, was brought before a judge on Wednesday facing charges of second-degree murder following the tragic death of a toddler. The child, identified as 23-month-old Luca Hudson, succumbed to internal injuries caused by head trauma.
Bliss was taken into custody Tuesday, having been linked to the events leading to the child’s critical condition and subsequent death in January of this year. The grievous incident reportedly transpired while the toddler’s mother was away from their Keene residence, attending to errands.
Court documents unveiled that authorities were alerted to a medical emergency involving the young boy on January 14, 2024. First responders arrived at the scene to discover Luca in a dire state, accompanied by his brother, mother, and her boyfriend, Bliss.
The investigation intensified following testimonies from neighbors and digital evidence. According to a neighbor, cries from Luca were heard the night his mother was out. Concurrently, security footage from a local grocery store confirmed her absence from home during the critical hours.
Further complicating the case are the details surrounding the child’s worsening condition. Despite visible signs of distress, there was no immediate medical intervention sought by Bliss, as on the morning following the incident, Luca was found in his crib covered in vomit, an alarming sight that finally prompted a 911 call.
Investigators divulged to the court disturbing findings from Bliss’ internet search history around the time Luca first complained of headaches. Searches included phrases such as “2 year old head squishy” and “2 year old hit head now swollen head squishy,” suggesting a desperate attempt to understand the child’s symptoms following the incident.
Despite these searches, Bliss did not disclose any potential head injuries to law enforcement when questioned, casting further suspicion on his actions and responses during the ordeal. By the time emergency services transported Luca to the hospital, he was unconscious, and his condition deteriorated, leading to his death three days later from severe brain swelling. The autopsy confirmed these injuries as consistent with non-accidental trauma.
During his preliminary court appearance, both Bliss and the child’s mother denied any involvement in the events leading to Luca’s injuries. Following the arraignment, the court scheduled a probable cause hearing for Bliss on April 3, where further details are expected to emerge.
This case has deeply affected the Keene community, prompting discussions on child safety and the responsibilities of caregivers. As the legal proceedings progress, it not only seeks justice for Luca but also serves as a solemn reminder of the vulnerability of children and the profound duty of care owed to them.