Macon, Georgia Man Willie Northern Jr. Arrested in Bibb County for Murder of Infant

Macon, Georgia Man Willie Northern Jr. Arrested in Bibb County for Murder of Infant

MACON, GA — Willie Northern Jr., a 24-year-old resident of Kathleen, was arrested in Bibb County in connection with the death of his girlfriend’s 6-month-old son.

According to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, Northern was taken into custody early Monday following an investigation into an unresponsive infant reported at a home on Fairmont Avenue. Deputies say the incident was reported to 911 after the child was found not breathing.

Authorities said Northern told deputies he was caring for the infant at the time and had fed, swaddled, and put the baby down to rest before later finding him unresponsive. The child was transported to Atrium Health Navicent Children’s Hospital and later airlifted to the Children’s Hospital of Atlanta due to severe injuries.

Investigators determined the infant’s condition was suspicious, and Northern was brought in for questioning. He was initially charged with first-degree cruelty to children and tampering with evidence. On Tuesday night, officials confirmed the infant had died from his injuries.

Northern was transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center, where he remains in custody. He is now facing a murder charge related to the child’s death.