Man charged with murder in death of Sanford 3-year-old

SANFORD, NC (WTVD) -- After getting the results of an autopsy from the State Medical Examiner, the Sanford Police Department has charged a man with first-degree murder in the death of a 3-year-old boy March 28.

Michael Antony Amatucci is being held in the Lee County Jail without bond.

Braylon Willett was found unresponsive when emergency workers were called to an apartment in the 100 block of Gordon Street.

The boy was immediately taken to Central Carolina Hospital. Further investigation showed he had injuries to his head and body. He was later airlifted to UNC-Chapel Hill Hospital where he passed away.

Amatucci was initially charged with felony child abuse inflicting serious physical injury. The charges were increased Thursday after the medical examiner determined the child's death was a homicide.