Allentown Father Charged with Murder Following Child’s Death

UPDATE: In a shocking development, authorities in Bensalem have charged Kyle Hinkle, a 38-year-old father from Allentown, with third-degree murder in connection to the death of his son, stemming from a child abuse case dating back to 2012. The announcement was made by Bensalem Police on Monday, highlighting the tragic culmination of a long-standing investigation.

The child, who was only an infant at the time of the alleged abuse, succumbed to injuries in August 2024, in Oliver, Pennsylvania. An autopsy revealed that the boy’s death was caused by blunt force trauma to the head and neck, injuries directly linked to the abuse he suffered as a three-month-old baby. This horrific case began when medical staff at Aria Torresdale reported a patient with alarming signs of abuse, prompting intervention from the Bucks County Department of Children and Youth.

In October 2012, Hinkle reportedly admitted to shaking his infant son multiple times out of frustration, claiming he was unable to stop the child’s crying. Police detailed that Hinkle’s actions were without proper head support, which contributed to the severe injuries sustained by the infant. Following the initial investigation, Hinkle was charged and pleaded guilty to several offenses, including Aggravated Assault and Endangering the Welfare of Children. He served a two-year prison sentence and was under supervised parole for an additional three years.

However, the case took a critical turn following the recent autopsy results, which led the Bucks County District Attorney to file murder charges against Hinkle. On Monday, District Justice Michael Gallagher issued a warrant for Hinkle’s arrest, resulting in his apprehension at his workplace with the help of Allentown Police. Hinkle was arraigned and is currently held at the Bucks County Correctional Facility on a bail set at 10% of $2,000,000.

As this case unfolds, the community is left grappling with the implications of such a tragic story. The emotional toll on the child’s family and the broader impact on child welfare advocates cannot be overstated. This developing story will continue to be monitored closely, as authorities seek justice for the young victim.

Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent and heart-wrenching case.