Man charged with murder in connection with Keene toddler's death

A 22-year-old man, Annthoni Bliss, appeared in court on Wednesday charged with second-degree murder related to the death of his girlfriend's toddler, 23-month-old Luca Hudson, in Keene, New Hampshire. Bliss was arrested on Tuesday following an investigation into the child's death, which occurred in January 2024 due to severe internal head injuries.

According to police reports, the incident allegedly took place while Luca's mother was grocery shopping. Court documents reveal that a 911 call was made shortly after Luca was found in medical distress in his home. When officers arrived, they discovered Luca along with his brother, mother, and Bliss. Reports indicate that the injuries may have occurred while the mother was out on the night of January 13.

Witness accounts and video surveillance helped investigators piece together a timeline that pointed to potential abuse during the time the mother was away. Upon her return, Bliss reportedly failed to mention any injuries to Luca. The following morning, the couple discovered the toddler in his crib, unresponsive and covered in vomit, prompting them to call for help.

Emergency responders arrived to find Luca unconscious, and he was rushed to the hospital but died three days later. An autopsy revealed that his death resulted from swelling due to a brain injury consistent with nonaccidental trauma. Investigators also uncovered internet searches on Bliss's phone related to head injuries in young children, which raised further suspicions.

Both Bliss and Luca's mother have denied any wrongdoing. Following a brief arraignment, a probable cause hearing has been scheduled for April 3, where further details of the case will be examined.