Riverdale, Georgia, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Antonio Pearce has been charged with the murder of his six-month-old son, Nnakai Pratt, following the discovery of the child’s body after a false kidnapping report. Pearce initially claimed his son was taken during an armed robbery, but inconsistencies in his story prompted further investigation, leading to multiple charges, including concealing a death and tampering with evidence. The tragic case raises significant concerns about child safety and the repercussions of illegal activities.
Riverdale, Georgia
Antonio Pearce, a resident of suburban Atlanta, has been charged with the murder of his six-month-old son, Nnakai Pratt. The tragic incident unfolded after Pearce initially reported an armed robbery in which he claimed his son was kidnapped by two armed men. This false claim led to a large-scale police search that ended with the discovery of Nnakai’s body in nearby woods.
The situation began when Pearce reportedly told police that his apartment, which he used as a stash house, was targeted by two men dressed in black. He claimed that during the armed robbery, they stole $6,500 in cash and 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) of marijuana and snatched Nnakai from his car seat. However, after a two-day search, authorities found the child’s body on Tuesday evening, raising suspicions about Pearce’s account of events.
Following the discovery of the body, police arrested Pearce on Sunday, charging him with marijuana possession and traffic offenses. Upon further investigation, authorities noted inconsistencies in his statements, prompting additional charges against him. On Wednesday, court records revealed that Pearce was formally charged with murder, alongside multiple other charges including concealing a death, tampering with evidence, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, cruelty to a child, and falsely reporting a crime.
During a bond hearing related to the false statement charge, a judge denied Pearce bail, citing his contradictory statements during the investigation and subsequent admissions about concealing and falsifying facts pertaining to the case. As of now, no defense attorney is listed for Pearce in court records.
Tragically, Nnakai was one of twins, and his surviving brother is currently in the care of their mother, who has not been charged in connection with this case.
Charges Against Antonio Pearce
- Murder
- Concealing a death
- Tampering with evidence
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated battery
- Cruelty to a child
- Falsely reporting a crime
Background Context
The incident raises critical concerns regarding child safety and the legal obligations around reporting and handling child-related crimes. Sensitive to public perception and the seriousness of child welfare cases, law enforcement agencies have emphasized the importance of accurate reporting in investigations, particularly when it involves the safety of minors.
The case has also highlighted the risks associated with illegal activities, such as drug possession, and their potential to escalate into tragic outcomes. The apprehension of individuals involved in such circumstances typically becomes more complex when lives are at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has Antonio Pearce faced?
Antonio Pearce has been charged with murder of his six-month-old son, Nnakai Pratt, alongside multiple other charges including concealing a death, tampering with evidence, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, cruelty to a child, and falsely reporting a crime.
What did Pearce initially claim happened to his son?
Pearce initially told police that his son, Nnakai, was kidnapped during an armed robbery by two armed men who stole $6,500 in cash and 3 pounds of marijuana from an apartment he was using as a stash house.
Where was Nnakai’s body found?
Nnakai’s body was found in nearby woods after a two-day search conducted by local authorities.
What is known about the surviving twin?
Nnakai was a twin, and his surviving brother is currently in the care of their mother, who has not been charged in connection with this case.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Antonio Pearce |
| Victim | Nnakai Pratt, 6-month-old son |
| Initial Claim | Kidnapping during an armed robbery |
| Charges | Murder, concealment of a death, tampering with evidence, among others |
| Body Discovery | Found in nearby woods |
| Surviving Twin | In care of mother |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Faces Housing Challenges and Immigration Controversies
Father Charged with Malice Murder After Infant’s Body Found
Wave of Violence Strikes Atlanta with Multiple Shootings
Additional Resources
- ABC News: Georgia Man Charged with Murder of Infant Son
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Jonesboro Right Now: Harrisburg Woman Convicted of Attempting to Murder Child
- Google Search: Child Endangerment
- Near Report: Harrisburg Woman Sentenced to 36 Years for Attempted Murder
- Google Scholar: Child Safety Laws
- KAIT: Woman Arrested in Murder Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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