BRANFORD, CT — Anthony A. Esposito Jr., 52, was arrested and charged with the murder of his 12-year-old son, Anthony P. Esposito, on Thursday afternoon in Branford. The tragic incident occurred at around 4 p.m. on Hemlock Road, where police discovered the child’s lifeless body.
Esposito has been charged with murder with special circumstances and criminal attempt to commit murder. He was held on a $3 million bond and faced a judge on Friday. Authorities say that Esposito brutally beat his son to death with a baseball bat, and attempted to kill another family member, his 16-year-old daughter. Investigators revealed that he pushed her down the stairs to where her brother’s body was located. Fortunately, his daughter was able to escape.
According to the state’s attorney, Esposito told police that if they hadn’t arrived when they did, he would have killed his daughter as well. The prosecutor stated that Esposito admitted to wanting to kill her with the same weapon.
Following the attack, Esposito fled the scene, and was apprehended on Route 79 after a car stop with the help of Connecticut State Police. During the investigation, Esposito claimed he was suffering from mental health issues, particularly following the recent suicide of his mother. He also acknowledged a history of psychiatric problems, noting his multiple hospitalizations throughout his life.
Esposito’s attorney mentioned his client’s mental health history, explaining that he had been struggling to manage his condition, especially after the tragic loss of his mother. He further noted that Esposito had not been taking his medication recently.
While Esposito has no criminal history, his defense argued for a lower bond of $1 million, but the judge denied the request. The court stipulated that if Esposito can pay the bond, he must have no contact with his daughter and must remain at least 100 yards away from her.
Branford residents expressed their shock over the tragedy. Paul Mancini, a local resident, stated, “When you hear something like this… it blows you away… it’s sad.”
The Branford School District has been working closely with police to provide grief counseling and support to students and staff following the devastating event.
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Tranberg also issued a statement offering condolences to the community. The incident has shaken the community, with residents struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss.
Esposito reportedly told police that his son had been disrespectful, frequently gesturing at him with his middle finger, which he claimed triggered the violent outburst. He also mentioned hearing voices of his deceased parents, who he alleged had physically abused him during his childhood.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to piece together the details of this heartbreaking case.
