A disturbing case in northwestern New Mexico has led to murder charges after authorities say an infant was buried alive during a walk in a remote area near Flora Vista.
San Juan County, NM – A 43-year-old father is accused of killing his 11-month-old son and burying him in a remote area, where investigators say the child’s final moments included breathing in dirt. The case has shocked the San Juan County community and prompted an ongoing homicide investigation into the death of John “JJ” Teigue Hannon.
John Hannon faces charges of child abuse resulting in death and tampering with evidence, according to the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office. An affidavit obtained by KOB states the infant suffered a skull fracture and had dirt in his airway, indicating he was alive when he was buried.
Search leads to grim discovery
The investigation began on Feb. 8 after a homeowner reported surveillance footage showing a man pushing a stroller near a residence outside Flora Vista. San Juan County Sheriff Shane Ferrari said deputies responded but initially found only a discarded stroller at the scene.
Later that same day, the child’s mother reported the baby missing, telling deputies Hannon had left with the infant and a 4-year-old child in a stroller and returned with only the older child. Hannon claimed a grandparent had taken the baby, according to Ferrari.
“When asked about the whereabouts of the baby, Hannon gave conflicting statements as to the location of the child,” Ferrari said.
Deputies connected the discarded stroller to Hannon and went to his home. After he failed to respond, they forced entry and found him hiding inside. The baby was not located.
Investigators searched the surrounding area, finding clothing belonging to both Hannon and the infant. A more extensive search resumed the following morning.
“Sadly, at approximately 10 a.m. the search team found the partially buried body of the 11-month-old baby,” Ferrari said.
Interview reveals admissions and inconsistencies
Video obtained by KOB shows detectives questioning Hannon about his son’s disappearance. During the interview, an investigator asked, “Why is JJ missing? Is he hurt?”
“Yes, he’s hurt bad,” Hannon replied.
When shown a photo of the child’s body and asked if he struck his son, Hannon responded, “No, not technically.” Pressed further on whether the child fell or was thrown, he answered “neither.”
Authorities say Hannon later admitted to burying the child. According to the Durango Herald, he told investigators, “I knew he was dead.” He also reportedly said he “made a mistake,” adding that “at one point in time I did love my kids” but that it had “changed.”
The Office of the Medical Investigator ruled the manner of death a homicide. Authorities have not announced a motive and say the investigation into the events leading up to the child’s death is ongoing.
“There is no greater evil than individuals who hurt and kill children,” Ferrari said. “You have my word we will do everything in our power to bring justice to this precious child.”
Hannon is being held without bond at the San Juan County Adult Detention Center. Court proceedings have not yet been scheduled.
