Authorities Investigate Gravedigger in Baby’s Grave Desecration Case
UNITED STATES – Authorities in Salt Rock, West Virginia, are investigating the desecration of a baby’s grave at Baylous Cemetery after a couple discovered the remains of a baby boy, buried in 1982, while decorating graves for Easter.
Matthew Fortner (49) a gravedigger, allegedly struck the baby’s casket while preparing a new burial site.
Officials revealed that the casket was damaged, discarded on a hillside and parts of the remains, including the right arm and foot, were missing.
If convicted of the charges, Fortner could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, adding weight to the ongoing investigation.
The Cabell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Fortner, a contracted worker at the cemetery, has no connection to the child.
The suspect, who has a prior murder conviction, pleaded not guilty and is currently out on bond following his arrest.
The Baylous Cemetery Board expressed deep sorrow over the “shocking discovery” and pledged their full cooperation with investigators.
Concerns over cemetery security and the respectful handling of human remains have been raised, with details of the case reported by iHeartRadio.
A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, April 10, to address the charges against the gravedigger.
