A four-year-old Irish boy died after being abused by his stepmother, who admitted to shaking and striking him, leading to a life sentence.

A four-year-old boy in Ireland, described as joyful and caring, was murdered by his stepmother, who admitted to shaking and striking him, claiming she “snapped” during a moment of frustration. Medical examiners found evidence of prolonged abuse, including fatal injuries to his abdomen and head. The child died after falling from a bunk bed in March 2021, despite emergency treatment. His father, who had previously denied wrongdoing, was sentenced to seven years in prison for endangerment, neglect, and obstructing justice. The stepmother, with no prior convictions, will be sentenced to life imprisonment. The case has drawn national attention, highlighting risks of child abuse in blended families and prompting discussions on child safety and domestic violence.