Police in Kentucky are investigating the death of 11-month-old Grayson Walton, who was reportedly found hidden inside a couch after authorities say he died while in the care of 19-year-old Elijah Mayes. Investigators allege that Mayes later attempted to mislead authorities by creating a false identity and sending messages to himself in an effort to support his account of what happened.
According to police, Mayes was babysitting Grayson inside a Kentucky home when the infant died. The circumstances surrounding the baby’s death remain the subject of an ongoing investigation.
Authorities later discovered Grayson’s body concealed inside a couch. Police said the infant had multiple bruises and apparent teeth marks on his stomach when he was found. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the child’s death and the events that followed.
Mayes initially allegedly told investigators that another person had picked Grayson up. Police now accuse him of creating a fake phone number and pretending to be that person. Investigators allege that he then sent text messages to himself from the fabricated number in an attempt to make his account appear credible.
Mayes has pleaded not guilty to charges including murder, criminal abuse, tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Grayson’s step-grandfather, Jeff Barnett, has also been charged with tampering with physical evidence. The specific allegations against Barnett are part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding Grayson’s death, including what happened while he was in Mayes’ care and the events that followed. Further details may emerge as investigators review evidence and the criminal cases move through the courts.
The death of an 11-month-old child has left those familiar with the case seeking answers, while the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
