5-year-old boy died after his father who had a desire to kill his son and thought of ways to carry out the plan, strangled him to death; father charged

Iowa – In a disturbing case in Iowa, a 45-year-old man, identified as M. Schleier, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his 5-year-old son. The 5-year-old boy died after being strangled by his own father, Schleier, who was arrested following the tragic incident.

The distressing events unfolded early in the morning at the family’s home. Authorities were alerted to the situation by a 911 call reporting that the young boy was unresponsive. The caller mentioned that the boy “wasn’t breathing and was warm to the touch.” Upon their arrival, the first responders attempted life-saving measures and were desperately trying to revive the child, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The 5-year-old boy was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. At the scene, the boy’s mother told first responders, “His dad strangled him.”

Schleier was taken into custody shortly after his son’s death. During the investigation, he shockingly admitted to the act when questioned by a police officer, confirming his wife’s frantic statement at the scene that he had strangled their son. Further disturbing revelations came to light as Schleier confessed to harboring thoughts of killing the child for a week prior to the incident, even contemplating the use of knives, which were later found at the residence.

Authorities charged Schleier with murder in the first degree. The evidence gathered, including the multiple knives found in the home, suggested a premeditated intent to commit the horrendous act. Schleier’s admission and the physical evidence led to his immediate arrest and detention in the county’s jail with a bond set at $1 million cash-only.

Schleier made his initial court appearance via a video feed, where he displayed no emotion, adding a chilling layer to the already grim proceedings. The court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for November 8, where further details of the case will be addressed.

At the time of the murder, two other adults and another child were in the residence. Authorities confirmed that no one else was harmed during the incident. Details about the relationships between those present have not been disclosed. Authorities have not released specific details about what led to the tragic event. Aside from Schleier’s admission of thinking about killing his son for a week, no clear motive has been provided. Police have not suggested any reasons why he might have wanted to harm the child.

The community has been left shocked by this violent act within a seemingly quiet neighborhood. The County Attorney N. Maybanks expressed deep sympathy for the victim’s mother and family, emphasizing the unimaginable pain they must be enduring. He requested privacy for the family as they cope with this profound loss.

This tragic event has undoubtedly left the community and the victim’s family grappling with the horror and suddenness of the young boy’s death. As the legal process unfolds, many are calling for justice for the young boy, whose life was cut tragically short. The investigation continues as authorities and loved ones seek answers to this senseless act of violence.