Nicole Virzi, a trusted babysitter and friend of the family, has been charged with homicide and abuse after allegedly killing one 6-week-old twin and injuring the other. Prosecutors claim the injuries sustained by the babies are consistent with child abuse.
Nicole Virzi, a 29-year-old Ph.D. student specializing in depression research, was babysitting twin boys, Leon and Ari Katz, on June 16, when Leon was fatally injured. According to Virzi, Leon fell from his bouncer chair while she was sleeping, but medical examiners found a skull fracture and brain bleeds indicative of child abuse.
Family Friend Accused of Killing Baby and Abusing Twin
Virzi was arrested and charged with homicide, three counts of aggravated assault, and two counts of child endangerment. She pleaded not guilty, and her lawyer, David Shrager, maintains her innocence, denying any intentional wrongdoing.
Prosecutor Michael Wertz, however, presented disturbing evidence that both twins had injuries consistent with abuse. Virzi's defense attorney claims the allegations against his client are "extremely disturbing" and that she has no criminal history.
Family Friend Accused of Killing Baby and Abusing Twin
According to Shrager, Virzi is the daughter of a renowned cardiologist and was close to completing her doctoral degree. Virzi is also described as a close friend of the victims' parents and has known them for an extended period.
Days before the alleged homicide, Virzi presented her research on depression's impact on human health, demonstrating her expertise in the field.
Family Friend Accused of Killing Baby and Abusing Twin
Medical examinations on Leon revealed severe injuries, with doctors concluding that the wounds on both babies were inflicted and not accidental.
Following the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Leon's parents, Ethan and Savannah Katz, who described their son as a "happy, smiley, goofy baby boy."
Family Friend Accused of Killing Baby and Abusing Twin
Although Virzi initially denied any wrongdoing, prosecutors presented a compelling case against her, leading to her eventual arrest and incarceration in the Allegheny County Jail.
The occurrence of such heinous crimes within families is particularly disheartening, as it undermines trust and exposes children to unimaginable harm. The case remains ongoing, and the outcome will determine the accountability of those responsible for Leon's death and the well-being of Ari.
Family Friend Accused of Killing Baby and Abusing Twin
