Indiana Dad Blames Railroad Job After 12-Year-Old Daughter With Diabetes Dies From Neglect, Prosecutors Say
EVANSVILLE, IN – A 39-year-old Indiana father is on trial after his 12-year-old daughter died from untreated diabetes, with prosecutors arguing the girl’s tragic death was the result of repeated neglect.
Death of 12-Year-Old Alice Bredhold
On July 4, 2024, police found Alice Bredhold dead on the floor of her bedroom in the family’s Evansville home. An investigation determined Alice had Type 1 diabetes and died from diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition that occurs when insulin levels are too low.
Authorities say her parents repeatedly failed to provide her with proper medical care.
State’s Case: ‘A Matter of Time’
During opening arguments, Prosecutor Winston Lin highlighted school records showing Alice’s blood sugar spiking far beyond safe levels.
A school nurse documented 44 readings above 300 and 14 readings above 600 — where safe post-meal levels are typically below 180, according to the CDC.
“Kids don’t understand the value of daily routines. With Type 1 diabetes, it is critical,” Lin told jurors, adding Alice’s death was “a shocking event but not surprising.”
Father’s Defense: Railroad Job Kept Him Away
Defense attorney Dawnya Taylor countered that prosecutors unfairly portrayed Brent Bredhold as a single parent. She argued he often traveled for days at a time for his railroad job, leaving him unable to handle daily diabetes care.
Also charged is Ashley Marie Bredhold, 39, Alice’s mother. Her separate trial is scheduled for February 2025.
Evidence Presented
Jurors were shown photos of diabetes supplies found at the scene — including test strips, insulin pens, alcohol prep pads, and pump equipment — suggesting the family had access to treatment but failed to ensure Alice received consistent care.
A detective testified that Brent was notably absent on the day Alice was found, saying only her siblings, mother, and maternal grandparents were present when investigators arrived.
Remembering Alice
Alice attended Evans Elementary School, where she played the cello in the orchestra and joined a book club. Friends recalled her as outgoing, creative, and full of energy.
Her obituary remembered her love for crafts, drawing, fossils, and spending time with friends and family.
“She will be deeply missed,” the tribute read.
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