A federal jury has found Eugene Walter-George Rantanen guilty of murder and first-degree child abuse. Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Andrew Byerly Birge, announced the conviction. Rantanen, aged 37 from L’Anse, Michigan, is set to be sentenced in the fall.
The case involves a tragic incident that occurred on February 19, 2024. A nineteen-month-old toddler became unresponsive while under Rantanen's sole care at the L’Anse Reservation of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Despite medical efforts, the child passed away on February 24, 2024. According to testimony from a medical examiner during the trial, blunt force trauma to the head resulted in severe brain injuries leading to death. Government witnesses testified that Rantanen was responsible for these injuries.
Acting U.S. Attorney Birge commented on the case stating: “Any time a child dies, it is a tragedy. But it is particularly tragic when a caretaker causes the death.” He emphasized his office's commitment to holding individuals accountable for violent crimes.
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan said: “This conviction confirms that Eugene Rantanen will no longer pose a threat to anyone, especially our children.” Gibson acknowledged the collaborative investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies and extended condolences to those who loved the young victim.
The investigation was conducted by several agencies including the FBI, Michigan State Police, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Police, Baraga County Sheriff’s Office, and Village of L’Anse Police. The prosecution team consists of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexis Sanford and Jeanne Long.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by the Department of Justice addressing issues related to missing and murdered indigenous persons (MMIP). As noted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs: “For decades, Native American and Alaska Native communities have struggled with high rates of assault, abduction, and murder of tribal members.” More information about this crisis can be found on their website.