COLUMBUS, Ohio — A mother in Columbus has been charged with aggravated murder following the tragic death of her 9-month-old son, who authorities say sustained fatal injuries after being thrown across a room.
Emergency responders were called to a residence on the 900 block of North 4th Street in the Italian Village neighborhood around 5 p.m. Wednesday. Once there, they found the infant unresponsive and immediately transported him to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, the child ultimately died due to his injuries.
Billie Jo Tustin, 30, has since been charged with aggravated murder, having originally faced lesser charges of felonious assault and child endangerment. She remains in custody at the James A. Karnes Corrections Center without bond.
According to police, medical staff at the hospital observed that the child’s injuries were not consistent with accidental harm, prompting an urgent investigation led by the homicide unit. During interrogations, Tustin reportedly confessed to throwing her son approximately 15 feet and mentioned previously throwing him shorter distances. Additionally, she described using physical discipline, including spanking and slapping, during moments of frustration. Medical examinations indicated signs of repeated trauma on the infant.
Officers arriving at Tustin’s home also found several adults and another child present. While her 3-year-old daughter was unharmed during the incident, she has since been placed in the care of Franklin County Children Services.
As part of the investigation, authorities reviewed a 911 call made by Tustin, where she claimed her son was not breathing. It remains unclear how much time elapsed between the alleged incident and her call for help.
Franklin County Children Services has stated that they previously had involvement with Tustin’s family. Reports indicate that she was in the process of closing her case with the agency just before the tragic events unfolded.
Tustin is expected to appear for her arraignment at the Franklin County Municipal Court on September 19. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full circumstances surrounding the child’s death.