The quiet areas of Wexford County, Michigan, have become the place for a very sad and shocking crime. The disappearance and death of 22-year-old Rebecca Park shocked the community. People are disturbed because the crime was done by people close to her. The case involves torture and taking a baby from a pregnant mother, which has gotten attention all over the country.
The Disappearance of Rebecca Park
In early November 2025, Rebecca Park, who was 38 to 39 weeks pregnant, went missing. Family and friends hoped she was safe, but as days passed, the case became more serious. She was last seen or taken from her mother’s house on November 3, 2025. Police and volunteers searched the area, hoping to find her alive.
A Gruesome Discovery in Manistee National Forest
The search ended sadly on November 25, 2025. Police found Rebecca’s body in Manistee National Forest. The place is usually beautiful but became a crime scene. Reports said she had severe injuries. The case changed from a missing person report to a serious murder investigation. Evidence showed the attack was planned.
The Allegations: A Mother’s Ultimate Betrayal
The most shocking part is who did it. Prosecutors say Rebecca’s mother, 40-year-old Cortney Bartholomew, and her stepfather, 47-year-old Bradly Bartholomew, are responsible. They face charges like first-degree murder, torture, assault on a pregnant woman, and unlawful imprisonment.
Prosecutors say the couple tricked Rebecca to come to their home. Then they took her to the forest. During the attack, it is said that five chilling words were spoken before the worst happened. The Bartholomews allegedly stabbed and tortured Rebecca. They then cut her unborn baby from her body while she was still alive. Both Rebecca and her baby died.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
The court acted quickly. In Cadillac, Michigan, the judge did not allow the Bartholomews to have bail. They are in jail and may face life in prison without parole. The story has shocked the community. People are struggling to understand such a cruel act. The case shows how dangerous family violence can be, especially for pregnant women. Groups that help victims say the case is a warning for communities to watch for violence and support people in need.
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Understanding the Motive and “Fetal Abduction”
The reason for the crime is still being studied. Fetal abduction means taking a baby from a mother before birth. Usually, it happens because the criminal wants the baby as their own. In this case, the mother of the victim did it, which makes it harder to understand.
Police continue to gather evidence, including digital records and witness statements, to understand what happened on November 3. Law enforcement praised the teamwork between state and local police in arresting the suspects soon after finding the body.
Disclaimer
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources. Readers should cross-check updates from official news outlets.