Branford Man Charged with Murder

A 52-year-old man from Branford, Anthony Andrew Esposito Jr., faces serious charges of murder and attempted murder following a tragic incident in his home. Authorities allege that he killed his 12-year-old son, also named Anthony, using a baseball bat and attempted to harm his 16-year-old daughter.

The shocking event transpired on Thursday, leaving the local community in disbelief. Police reports indicate that officers received a distress call from a woman fearing for someone’s life at Esposito’s condominium on Hemlock Road. Upon their arrival, they found the young boy in the basement with severe head injuries; he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Meanwhile, Esposito fled the scene, prompting a search.

Connecticut State Police apprehended him later that day during an aid and traffic stop. During the arrest, prosecutors say Esposito appeared to confess, stating he heard voices, including those of his abusive parents. He mentioned that on May 1, a voice instructed him not to let his son escape and kept repeating “Baseball, baseball bat.”

Esposito recounted that after the violent act, he picked up his daughter from her bus stop, telling her that her brother was downstairs. When they reached the stairs, he allegedly pushed her towards the body, intending to use the bat against her as well. Luckily, she managed to escape before he could carry out his intent.

His defense attorney pointed to a troubled history, including past psychiatric hospitalization and auditory hallucinations, as detailed in the police report. During the hearing on May 2, the judge emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning Esposito that he could face life imprisonment without parole due to the horrific nature of the crimes.