[Warning: Sensitive Content]
A shocking development has emerged in the case of Rebecca Park’s murder. The 22-year-old, who was 38 weeks pregnant, went missing on November 3 from her mother Cortney Bartholomew’s home in Boon Township, Michigan. Her body was found three weeks later in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, no longer pregnant, and her baby was missing. Initially, the father was believed to be her fiancé, Richard Falor, who was arrested on drug charges. However, new claims have surfaced regarding the child’s paternity.
Cortney, her husband, and Rebecca’s stepfather, Bradley Bartholomew, have been charged with the murder and torture of Rebecca. Prosecutor Johanna Carey stated that Bradley brought Rebecca to their home, forced her into a vehicle, and took her to the woods, where they allegedly attacked her. Rebecca and her baby died from the injuries, and authorities suspect she was alive when left in the woods.
According to an affidavit reviewed by People, Cortney initially denied involvement but later confessed when cell phone evidence placed her at the crime scene. She admitted to using a scalpel to remove the baby, claiming she intended to save the child for Richard, with whom she was having an affair. It was also revealed that Rebecca’s sister, Kimberly, was involved, having been arrested for tampering with evidence and lying to police.
Cortney claimed the baby’s father was actually Bradley, not Richard. She alleged that Bradley forced Rebecca into a car and stabbed her, after which Cortney removed the baby. The affidavit stated Rebecca was conscious during the attack, with Bradley holding a knife to her throat.
Cortney recounted that the baby was not breathing when removed. They allegedly disposed of Rebecca’s body by covering it with leaves. Cortney suggested Bradley’s actions were revenge against Richard, who had reported him for violating sex offender registry conditions.
WZZM 13 reported Bradley’s past convictions, including third-degree criminal sexual conduct and possession of child sexual abuse material. He served 11 years in prison from 2011 to 2022.
Investigators have not yet located the baby’s remains, as Cortney claimed they disposed of him in a dumpster. She insisted she did not stab Rebecca but acknowledged the injuries from the scalpel were likely fatal. Cortney alleged Bradley had planned the attack months prior.
In a twist, Bradley accused Cortney of orchestrating the murder, claiming her desire for more children led to the crime. Text messages from Cortney to her sister before the murder falsely claimed she had given birth to a baby boy who later died.
Both Cortney and Bradley face life imprisonment for their actions. The case continues to unfold as authorities seek justice for Rebecca.
For more information on violence against women, visit https://www.justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors.
[Image via Missaukee County Sheriffs Office, Rebecca Park/Facebook]
