An Indiana man has confessed to the murder of his 6-year-old son, accepting responsibility for the tragic event.

Franklin Elmore Jr., aged 29, officially entered a guilty plea earlier this month, as reported by WNDU. His sentencing is set for November 25.

The case, which has drawn significant attention, involves both Franklin and his wife, Cheyenne Elmore, who is 27 and the boy’s stepmother. They were both charged in August with the murder of young Justin Elmore, according to CrimeOnline. The child was taken to the hospital on August 3, suffering from severe injuries. His father initially claimed that Justin had harmed himself due to behavioral problems. However, medical professionals found this explanation unlikely, noting a brain bleed, a punctured lung, and multiple bruises and abrasions.

Further investigation revealed damning evidence from surveillance footage in Justin’s playroom, capturing Elmore assaulting him before his untimely death. Court documents indicate that Elmore was visibly distressed, pacing in the backyard with his hands on his head, while Cheyenne, present during the incident, called 911 but did not intervene.

During a recent plea hearing, Elmore admitted to causing his son’s death, though he insisted it was unintentional, as reported by WNDU.

Meanwhile, Cheyenne Elmore asked for a delay in her trial to give more time to review mental health records, and the judge reset the start date to February 2, 2026. She is due back in court again on December 18.