The manslaughter trial of Meggin Van Hoof continues to examine the 2015 death of 15-month-old Nathaniel McLellan. The case centers on whether the toddler’s fatal brain injury was the result of a criminal act or a tragic accident.
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- The Day of the Incident: Nathaniel’s mother testified that he was healthy and happy when she dropped him off at Van Hoof’s home daycare. Later that day, he was rushed to the hospital with a severe brain injury, eventually passing away after being removed from life support.
- The “Collapse” Claim: In a secret recording made by Nathaniel’s father, Van Hoof claimed the boy “wasn’t himself” and simply fainted or collapsed.
- The Defense Theory: The defense has focused on the possibility of a fall. During cross-examination, Nathaniel’s father admitted he didn’t think Van Hoof “threw him down the stairs,” but maintained his belief that she was responsible for the injury.
Medical Uncertainty
The medical evidence remains a focal point of the trial. While doctors confirmed the cause of death was a non-accidental brain injury, the specific mechanism remains under debate. Potential causes discussed include:
- A direct blow or impact.
- A fall down stairs.
- Lack of oxygen (hypoxia).
- A severe seizure.
