Pennsylvania Couple Charged in Death of 15-Month-Old
Mount Pleasant Township, PA – Michael Blasser, 34, and Ashley Makarsky, 31, have been charged with third-degree murder in connection with the death of a 15-month-old child in February 2025. They are also facing charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering the welfare of children, according to the Pennsylvania State Police Crimewatch.
Details of the Incident
State police responded to a 911 call on Crestview Drive in Mount Pleasant Township regarding an unresponsive child. Upon arrival, troopers initiated CPR on the 15-month-old, who was found to be unresponsive, pale, and blue. Despite life-saving efforts, the child was pronounced dead at a local hospital WTAE.
Conditions of the Home
Investigators found the residence to be in deplorable conditions. There was no running water, heat, or electricity, and no evidence of edible food. The temperature inside the home was reportedly 28 degrees Fahrenheit, and the environment was filled with feces, urine, and garbage.
Substance Abuse and Fentanyl Exposure
According to police reports, Blasser and Makarsky appeared to be under the influence of illicit substances when questioned. Blood tests revealed both tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine. A urine test of another child residing in the home was positive for norfentanyl, a metabolite of fentanyl, indicating recent exposure to the drug.
Autopsy Findings
An autopsy conducted by the Westmoreland County Coroner’s Office determined the 15-month-old child died as a result of acute methamphetamine toxicity. The autopsy also revealed the child had been deceased for a significant period before the 911 call was made, based on internal temperature readings.
Legal Proceedings
Blasser and Makarsky were arraigned on Monday and are being held at the Westmoreland County Prison on $1 million bail. Children and Youth Services took emergency custody of the other child living in the residence.
Obituary of Thomas “Tommy” Blaesser
Thomas “Tommy” Henry Blaesser, 1, of Acme, Pa., passed away on February 12, 2025, at Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant, Pa. He was born on November 9, 2023, to Ashley Amber Makarsky and Michael Thomas Blaesser Corridoni Funeral Home.
Disclaimer: These charges are accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.