New York father charged with death of 2-month-old son; boy buried in wooded area

NEW YORK -- A 51-year-old New York man has been arrested in connection with the death of a 2-month-old boy whose body was discovered in a wooded area in Dutchess County. The baby's body was found in the woods near a motel in Dover.

Jose Feliciano is now awaiting arraignment on second-degree murder charges in the death of the boy. Police say the murder happened in the apartment on Bogart Avenue in Morris Park.

Investigators say on December 10th, the newborn, Mason Whyte, was crying as newborns do, and Feliciano went to go take care of him. Feliciano then allegedly smothered and choked the baby to death.

When the mother came out to see what happened, she said Feliciano threatened to kill her, as well. Two days later, authorities report that the couple disposed of the baby in a wooded area under some leaves.

Detectives believe surveillance video shows the father carrying out the baby's body in a duffel bag.

The heartbreaking story finally came to light last week when the mother apparently tried to kill herself by overdosing on pills. The hospital staff saved her life, and while she was being treated, she reportedly told staff what happened. A call was made to police, and the baby's body was found.

No charges against the mother have been filed.

An autopsy is now being performed on the infant.

Eyewitness News is told the father gave a confession to police. One neighbor said Feliciano was known for violence and drugs.