Kentucky State Police arrest two people from Graves County on homicide and child abuse charges – Kentucky State Police

MELBER, Ky. (Oct. 11, 2024) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 officers have arrested two Graves County residents on manslaughter charges following an investigation into the death of a young child.

On June 17, 2024, officers responded to a residence on KY-849 in Graves County for a report of a two-year-old child unresponsive after being found in a backyard pool. Police officers and other first responders attempted life-saving measures; However, the child was declared dead after being rushed to an area hospital. A joint investigation between KSP investigators and the Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) was conducted into the circumstances of the child’s death, as well as the conditions of other children living at the home.

On October 3, 2024, the facts of the investigation were presented to the Graves County Grand Jury. Nathaniel Purcell, the father of the deceased child, and Courtney Amacher, Purcell’s girlfriend who also lives at the home, have both been charged with multiple crimes related to the investigation. On October 11, 2024, both individuals were arrested pursuant to the charging warrants.

Nathaniel Purcell, age 27, of Melber, Kentucky, was charged with second-degree manslaughter, seven counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, four counts of second-degree criminal mistreatment – child under 12, tampering with evidence and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Courtney Amacher, age 26, of Melber, Kentucky, was charged with 2nd Degree Manslaughter, seven counts of 1st Degree Wanton Endangerment, four counts of 2nd Degree Criminal Abuse – Child Under 12, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

No further details of the investigation are currently being provided.

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