A community in Michigan is reeling after the horrific killing of 22-year-old Rebecca Park, whose pregnant body was found in the Manistee National Forest nearly three weeks after she went missing.
Her biological mother, Cortney Bartholomew (40), and stepfather, Bradley Bartholomew (47), have been charged with an array of crimes including murder, torture, unlawful imprisonment, and removal of a dead body.
Authorities allege the pair lured Park—who was 38 weeks pregnant—to their home in Boon on 3 November, before driving her into the forest and attempting to cut her unborn baby from her body. Both mother and baby died from the attack. The newborn’s remains have not been found.
Wexford County Prosecutor Johanna Carey described the killing in court as nothing short of “evil personified”.
A Disappearance That Triggered a Massive Search
Park was reported missing on 4 November and was last seen entering a vehicle at her mother’s home the previous day. Local volunteers, police, and family members launched a significant search effort across Wexford County.
Her remains were found on 25 November in a remote section of the Manistee National Forest, north of Grand Rapids. Carey said during the arraignment that evidence showed Park endured severe suffering during the attack.
“This case involves a truly horrific homicide,” Carey said. “The brutality and disregard for human life displayed here are deeply troubling.”
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel vowed that the state would work tirelessly to secure justice for Park and her unborn child.
Additional Charges Against Family Members
Two other individuals connected to Park have also been charged in recent days:
• Kimberly Park, Rebecca’s sister, faces charges including tampering with evidence and filing a false police report.
• Richard Falor, identified as Park’s fiancé, has been charged with drug-related offenses but is not implicated in the killing.
Court records revealed that the courtroom was packed with community members during the Bartholomews’ first court appearance. Cars outside displayed messages such as “Justice for Becca and Baby Park” and “We are her voice”.
Family Motive Under Scrutiny
According to The Detroit Free Press, Bradley Bartholomew’s estranged sister, Stacey Davis, told reporters that her brother and his wife wanted a baby but were unable to conceive. She said she attended court for Rebecca and her baby, not in support of her brother.
The killings have shaken the close-knit community, leaving residents demanding answers and accountability as the case proceeds through Michigan’s courts.
