A family’s journey of hope within a hospital’s walls has ended in tragedy and a murder charge. The story began with the birth of premature twins, Gunner and Madelyn Bliss, who were receiving care at WakeMed. While their mother, Savannah, was with their daughter in the NICU, she entrusted their three-week-old son, Gunner, to his father. That act of trust ended in catastrophe, leading to the infant’s death and the arrest of 22-year-old Noah Bliss on a charge of first-degree murder.
The incident unfolded while the family was staying at the hospital’s Heart Center Inn, a facility designed to support families during long-term medical care. It was here that authorities allege the father inflicted fatal injuries on the newborn. Medical professionals determined that Gunner had suffered severe head trauma indicative of abusive head trauma, commonly known as shaken baby syndrome. Despite having no external injuries, the baby experienced brain bleeding and swelling that ultimately proved to be unsurvivable.
The newborn was taken off life support, and his father was soon taken into custody. During his court appearance, Noah Bliss was denied bond, ensuring he remains in jail as the legal proceedings continue. For the grieving mother, the arrest is a small step toward accountability, but it does little to mend her broken heart. She is now faced with the unbearable task of mourning one child while caring for his surviving twin sister, all while grappling with the betrayal of the man she trusted.
Savannah Bliss remembers her son as a beautiful and sweet baby, expressing her profound shock and devastation. She stated that her husband had always appeared to be a happy and proud father, making the alleged actions completely unexpected. Her world has been fractured, and her faith shattered by the person who was supposed to be a protector to their children. She now channels her energy into seeking justice for Gunner, hoping that the legal system will deliver a measure of solace for her profound loss.
This devastating event highlights the critical importance of infant safety and the dire consequences of losing control, even for a moment. The story of Gunner Bliss is a painful reminder of the vulnerability of children and the lifelong impact of a single, irreversible action. As the community mourns with the mother, the case continues to unfold, a solemn narrative of promise, trust, and a life ended far too soon.
