Bentley McIntyre in the hospital (Courtesy Grand Haven Tribune)
Bentley McIntyre in the hospital (Courtesy Grand Haven Tribune)
Bentley Ryan McIntyre (Courtesy Grand Haven Tribune)
SPRING LAKE, Mich. (WZZM) - A Spring Lake baby is struggling to survive, after police say he was shaken by his father. The grandmother of six week old Bentley McIntyre is speaking out for the first time, saying there are signs of improvement. However, the baby's father could be facing a life sentence because of a new state law.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Shaken baby remains in critical condition
The hospital picture of Bentley has captured the attention of many in the community.
"You see it's a helpless baby first of all, then you realize it's your grandson," says Patti Vanommen, Bentley's grandmother.
Vanommen was there just moments after her grandson stopped responding.
"Had to pump his chest on the way to the hospital and you never see yourself in that situation," says Vanommen.
Thursday night, Vanommen was upstairs at her home. Bentley was downstairs in his father's care when he started crying.
"I don't know, I think something just snapped," says Vanommen.
An MRI at the hospital determined the baby had been shaken.
"Worst moment of my life," says Vanommen.
Hours later, police arrested Bentley's father, 23 year old Justin McIntyre.
"In July, Michigan passed a new law that increases the sentence for child abuse cases, which means McIntyre could face life in prison if convicted.
"I believe there's no greater punishment then what he'll face when he looks in the mirror everyday," says Vanommen.
Family and friends are trying to turn anger into support with a Facebook page.
"Everyone could come to one place to check on Bentley's progress," says family friend, Autumn Ames.
Ames also got a positive update for the website.
"He's awake and he held his mom's finger," says Ames.
"I'm standing by his bedside praying every second of everyday," says Vanommen.
Bentley's family also says he hasn't had a seizure in several hours, which is a first. However, they acknowledge there's a long road ahead. If anyone would like to donate, the family has set up an account at Fifth Third Bank.