Utah Dad Claimed Son Took His Own Life in 911 Call; Now Arrested as Evidence Reveals ‘Years of Abuse’

A Utah couple has been arrested months after the death of their 11-year-old son. Authorities said that the child was a victim of serious abuse and torture inside the family home.

Brigham Merrell and Melinda Merrell were taken into custody on felony charges in connection with the boy’s death in September, according to the Tremonton Garland Police Department. Investigators said the case, first reported as a possible suicide, later revealed signs of severe abuse involving the child and other children in the household.

Police said Brigham Merrell called 911 on September 21 and told dispatchers he had found his son “hanging by a coaxial cable.” He claimed the boy had taken his own life, calling it a case of suicide.

Officers rushed to the family’s home in Tremonton, Utah, and found the child unresponsive. Police and emergency crews tried life-saving measures before the boy was taken to the hospital. He was pronounced dead upon arrival there.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by People, Brigham told officers he was performing CPR on his son before police arrived. But responding officers allegedly found him kneeling near the child and not giving CPR.

Investigators also reviewed camera footage from inside the home. Police shared a video that appeared to show the father carrying the child upstairs while emergency crews were knocking on the door to enter the residence.

Authorities said the child had bruises on his back that did not match injuries that are usually seen in hanging cases. Investigators believe the bruises happened shortly before or during the boy’s death.

Police also accused Brigham of changing details about the incident during interviews conducted over months.

The child’s name has not been released by authorities. A GoFundMe page was created for him, but was later removed.

Police, while investigating, uncovered a pattern of ongoing physical abuse involving the boy and other children living in the house. The other children have been referred to appropriate child welfare agencies.

According to the affidavit, investigators found evidence of years-long abuse and torture. The allegations include restricting food, using belts and pans for punishment, and forcing children to stay inside an outdoor dog run when they got in trouble.

Brigham Merrell now faces charges of child abuse, homicide, and child torture. Police also said that Melinda Merrel has been charged with child torture.

Authorities have not said whether the couple has entered pleas. It is also unclear if either has hired an attorney, as the investigation remains active.