In a heartbreaking and unexpected twist, PhD student Nicole Virzi finds herself at the center of a tragic and deeply troubling case. Accused of murdering her friend’s six-week-old baby while babysitting, Virzi, 29, is now facing the possibility of the death penalty—a decision that has left her and her defense team stunned.

Unanticipated Legal Move

Virzi’s attorney, David Shrager, revealed that although he and his client had discussed the potential for the state to pursue the death penalty, they didn’t believe it would actually happen. The announcement came as a shock. “Obviously, we discussed this as a possibility, but we weren’t expecting it,” Shrager shared with DailyMail.com. Despite the devastating news, he emphasized that both he and Virzi remain confident in their defense and are determined to fight the charges.

Family Support Amidst the Crisis

As soon as Shrager learned of the prosecution’s decision, he informed Virzi’s family, who are steadfast in their support. “It was another difficult conversation,” Shrager admitted, but he noted that her family remains positive. They plan to be present at her next court appearance on September 13 to fully support her. “They love their daughter and will stand by her 100 percent,” he said.

The Tragic Incident

The charges against Virzi stem from a horrific incident that occurred in June while she was babysitting the six-week-old twins, Leon and Ari Katz, at their Pittsburgh home. Police allege that Virzi is responsible for inflicting severe injuries on the babies, including a fracture to Leon’s skull and multiple brain bleeds. Tragically, Leon did not survive, and his twin brother Ari also sustained injuries but lived.

Court documents filed by the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office outline their reasons for seeking the death penalty, citing that the killing was committed during the perpetration of a felony and involved torture.

Virzi’s Account

According to Virzi, the tragedy unfolded when she left the room to get a bottle for one of the twins. She claims that upon returning, she found Leon had fallen out of his bouncer chair. She immediately called 911. Before this incident, she had also notified the parents about an injury to Ari’s groin area and continued caring for Leon while they took Ari to the hospital.

However, medical experts later determined that the injuries sustained by both twins were consistent with child abuse, raising serious doubts about Virzi’s account. Despite these allegations, Virzi maintains her innocence.

Awaiting Trial

As she awaits her day in court, Virzi is trying to stay positive and make the best of a dire situation. Her attorney noted that she is using her time productively while in custody and is managing as well as can be expected. Her parents visit her frequently, offering as much support as they can during this incredibly challenging time.

The Uncertain Future

Virzi, who was studying behavioral medicine, had dedicated her research to exploring the complex interplay between psychological factors and health outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations. Now, she faces the grim reality of fighting for her life in a legal battle that has captured widespread attention. As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the courtroom to see how this tragic story will ultimately be resolved.

TDPel Media

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