Six Indiana Family Members Charged After Family Dog Mauls 7-Day-Old Baby to Death in Filthy Home

HUNTINGTON COUNTY, Indiana — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Huntington County when a family dog named “Chomp” attacked and killed a 7-day-old baby, leading to felony charges against six relatives.
Seven-day-old Jason Weaver died on September 4, 2025, after being mauled inside the family home. According to investigators, the infant was attacked while his father was in another room playing video games. The baby’s grandfather rushed in holding the newborn, desperately yelling for someone to call 911 as the infant struggled to breathe.
Court documents describe the family home as extremely unsanitary and hazardous. Officers reported the house reeked of animal odor and was filled with trash, dirty dishes, piles of clothes, and bugs crawling on the walls, floors, and even the baby’s car seat. The conditions were so bad that responders could barely walk through the residence.
An autopsy revealed the extent of the horror: more than 180 abrasions on the newborn’s body, brain bleeding, broken ribs, and torn lungs.
Family members told police that the dog would “love on” the baby and rock his bouncer, but they also admitted Chomp had a history of aggression, was often jealous of the infant, and had bitten people before. One relative even suggested keeping a gun in the house in case the dog attacked again.
Following the fatal mauling, health officials deemed the home unfit for human habitation. The dog was removed from the property and later euthanized. A veterinarian found Chomp to be in good physical condition with no signs of rabies or medical issues.
The six family members now facing felony charges include:
- Austin Kinsey (father)
- Violet Weaver (mother)
- Michael Wickey (grandfather)
- Rita Wickey (grandmother)
- Tony Kinsey (uncle)
- Timothy Kinsey (step-grandfather)
All six are charged with neglect and dog-related offenses in connection with the baby’s death. They remain in custody as the case proceeds.
The tragedy has shocked the local community and sparked renewed discussions about animal control, child endangerment, and living conditions in homes with young children and potentially dangerous pets.