McKeesport teen to stand trial in death of 4-month-old son

A teenager will stand trial as an adult facing homicide charges in the death of his baby.

De-Jon Johnson, 16, is accused of suffocating his 4-month-old son, Isaiah Brooks-Leonard, while the baby was with him for a weekend.

The preliminary hearing concluded Friday morning, and all charges were held for court.

According to the criminal complaint, Johnson was taking care of the child in his home on Baker Street in McKeesport in February.

Johnson's mother told detectives the baby had no problems when she went to bed.

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Several hours later, the baby was found unresponsive in Johnson's room and later died.

The Medical Examiner determined Brooks-Leonard suffocated and suffered several injuries to his head and neck.

Johnson's mother was called to testify during today's preliminary hearing but used her 5th Amendment right against incrimination.

The judge ruled the homicide charge would be held for court, but said the prosecution barely reached the probable cause threshold.

Johnson’s attorney said his client loved his son and adamantly denies killing him.

"This was the second time the baby was at his house,” said attorney Blaine Jones. “The first time nothing happened and there were never any reports of abusive behavior by De-Jon.”

Johnson is scheduled to be arraigned in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in August. Stay with Channel 11 News and WPXI.com for continuing coverage.

Cox Media Group