Man Accused of Killing Girlfriend’s 5-Year-Old Son, Forced Mom to Lie and Blocked 911 Call

Indiana man charged with murder for allegedly abusing a 5-year-old boy, resulting in fatal injuries.

Michigan City, IN

A disturbing case from Michigan City has resulted in charges against 32-year-old Brandon Bainum, accused of fatally abusing a 5-year-old boy and then preventing the child's mother from seeking help.

According to the Michigan City Police Department, officers responded to a 911 call on Sunday, March 2, 2025, around 7:16 a.m., finding the child gravely injured at the home. The boy was immediately transported to Franciscan Hospital and then airlifted to the University of Chicago Children's Comer Hospital due to the severity of his condition. Tragically, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries later that evening.

Medical examinations revealed heartbreaking details: the young boy had sustained multiple injuries, including a traumatic brain bleed, severe bruising on his head, back, and lower body, and other signs consistent with severe abuse. His death was ruled a homicide resulting from physical assault.

During the investigation, the boy's mother described a series of brutal punishments inflicted by Bainum. She initially described a positive relationship between Bainum and her son, but later detailed disturbing episodes of cruelty. Bainum reportedly forced the boy into cold showers as punishment, required him to apologize for long periods repeatedly, and verbally and physically abused him when he felt disrespected. Witness statements also described Bainum becoming jealous when the mother gave her son attention, responding by forcing the child to eat hot sauce or verbally berating him.

On the night of the fatal assault, Bainum allegedly became angry after feeling "disrespected," forcing the child into a cold shower for 15 minutes and physically attacking him afterward. The child's mother discovered her son unresponsive hours later, cold to the touch. When she tried calling 911, Bainum reportedly interfered, telling her, "They're not your friends," attempting to prevent her from seeking help.

Bainum faces charges of murder and interference with reporting a crime and is currently detained in custody. He awaits further court proceedings as authorities continue investigating this tragic case.

The community remains in shock, grappling with how such cruelty could occur. Authorities encourage anyone with further information to contact local police immediately.