Fayette County Jury Convicts Lake Lynn Woman of Third-Degree Murder in Toddler's Death

LAKE LYNN, Pa. — A Fayette County jury has found 32-year-old Brianna Bloyer guilty of third-degree murder in connection with the death of her 2-year-old stepson, Bentlee Myers.

Bloyer was initially charged with first-degree murder following an investigation into the toddler's death on August 19, 2024. After deliberating over two days, jurors returned the third-degree murder conviction.

**Prosecution Statement:** Fayette County District Attorney Mike Aubele noted that while prosecutors sought a first-degree murder conviction, they respect the jury's finding regarding premeditation. Aubele emphasized that the third-degree conviction still carries significant sentencing weight.

**Defense Response:** Assistant Public Defender Gregory Kunkel indicated the defense team will review legal objections raised during the trial to assess potential grounds for appeal following a pre-sentence investigation.

**Co-Defendant Plea:** The child's father, Brent Bissett, cooperated with prosecutors and previously pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of involuntary manslaughter. He is serving a sentence of four to eight years in prison.

**Medical Evidence:** Emergency personnel responded to the residence after a visitor discovered the child unresponsive. Bentlee was flown to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia, where he succumbed to blunt-force trauma to the head three days later.

**Digital Forensics:** Evidence presented at trial showed Bloyer performed internet searches regarding how to make bruises fade prior to the child's collapse.

Bloyer is scheduled for sentencing on August 27. Prosecutors plan to seek the maximum penalty of 20 to 40 years in state prison.