A Ph.D. student specializing in depression research has been charged with the murder of her friend’s six-week-old son while babysitting. Nicole Virzi, 29, is accused of killing Leon Katz and abusing his twin brother, Ari, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in this tragic case that has shocked the community.
Key Takeaways
- Nicole Virzi, a Ph.D. student, is charged with the murder of six-week-old Leon Katz and the abuse of his twin brother, Ari.
- The incident occurred while Virzi was babysitting the twins in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, citing allegations of torture.
- Virzi has pleaded not guilty and maintains her innocence.
Incident Overview
On June 16, Nicole Virzi was babysitting six-week-old twins, Leon and Ari Katz, while their parents, Ethan Katz and Savannah Roberts, took Ari to the hospital for an injury. According to Virzi, Leon fell from his bouncer chair when she left him alone to get a bottle. However, doctors found Leon’s injuries, including a skull fracture and brain bleeds, consistent with child abuse. Leon was pronounced dead on Father’s Day, June 15.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Nicole Virzi has been charged with homicide, three counts of aggravated assault, and two counts of child endangerment. She has pleaded not guilty and is currently being held without bail at the Allegheny County Jail. Prosecutors have announced their intention to seek the death penalty, citing several aggravating factors, including allegations of torture.
Background of the Accused
Virzi is a fifth-year Ph.D. student specializing in research on depression’s effect on human behavior. She has no prior criminal history and is described as a close family friend of the Katz family. Her lawyer, David Shrager, stated that Virzi is emotionally devastated and maintains her innocence. Virzi’s research focuses on the interplay between psychological factors and critical health outcomes, particularly within female and trauma-exposed populations.
Community Impact and Reactions
The tragic death of Leon Katz has deeply affected the Pittsburgh community. A GoFundMe page set up to support the Katz family describes Leon as a “happy, smiley, goofy baby boy” and highlights the significant financial burdens the family is facing. The page also emphasizes the outpouring of love and support the family has received during this difficult time.
Next Steps
As the legal proceedings continue, Virzi’s lawyer has urged the public to withhold judgment until all facts are presented in court. The case has garnered significant media attention, and the community remains in shock over the tragic events.
Sources
- Ph.D. student specializing in depression charged with killing friend’s infant while babysitting twins | Fox News, Fox News.
- Prosecutors to seek death penalty for PhD student accused of killing her friend’s baby in Pennsylvania | Fox News, Fox News.
- PhD student accused of killing friends’ twin baby could face death penalty | US News | Metro News, Metro.co.uk.
- PhD student Nicole Virzi could face death penalty for baby’s alleged murder, News.com.au.
