Pennsylvania Man Charged with Murdering Bedridden Mother by Removing Oxygen Tube and Turning off Life Support

A man is accused of removing his mother's oxygen tube, leading to her death.

Pennsylvania Man Arrested for Murdering Bedridden Mother by Removing Oxygen Tube

A 40-year-old man from Pennsylvania has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly causing the death of his bedridden mother. Chad Walburn is accused of intentionally removing his 63-year-old mother’s oxygen tube and shutting off her life support machine, leading to her death.

What Happened on October 23?

Erie Police responded to a call on October 23 about a man refusing to leave a residence on the 3800 block of Stanley Avenue. Upon arriving at the home, officers found Chad Walburn inside with his mother, Phyllis Elaine Walburn, unconscious and soaking wet. There were visible signs of discoloration on her neck, and her oxygen tube had been removed. The machine, which was essential for her respiratory function, had also been turned off and unplugged.

Phyllis was rushed to the hospital but tragically passed away on October 31, following several years of health struggles.

Chad Walburn’s Alleged Confession

After being read his rights, Chad Walburn allegedly confessed to the authorities that he had removed his mother’s oxygen tube, turned off the life support machine, and unplugged it. According to the police affidavit, Walburn also admitted to pouring water from various containers, including a trash can, over his mother’s body. When questioned, Walburn reportedly stated that his mother "needed to die."

Coroner’s Findings and Charges

The Erie County Coroner ruled Phyllis’ death as a homicide, confirming that the cause of death was respiratory failure due to the intentional removal of her oxygen. Walburn was initially charged with aggravated assault following the incident, but after the coroner’s report, the charges were upgraded to first-degree murder.

Erie police deputy chief Rick Lorah confirmed that the investigation had numerous components, and authorities wanted to ensure all the details aligned with the coroner's findings. "The official coroner's report is out listing it as a homicide, and after conferring with the district attorney’s office, those charges were then filed," Lorah said.

Current Status of the Case

Chad Walburn was arraigned on murder charges and is being held at the Erie County Prison without bond.

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