Tracy Johnson, aunt to the baby killed, Donald Rathman, wants to know why the infant was returned to the mother and father's home.

A family member of an infant who was allegedly abused by his mother, then killed by his father wants answers.

The baby's mother, 36 year old Angela Rathman was arrested and charged with class C felony abuse of her 7 week old son, Donald Rathman. She's accused of squeezing her child, causing bruising around his rib cage, under his arms and on his legs. She's being held at the Buchanan County Law Enforcement center in lieu of a $45,000 bond. On October 9th, 52 year old, Ronny Rathman, was arrested and charged with second degree murder in the death of baby Donald. He's being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond.

St. Joseph police say Mr. Rathman took his son to heartland hospital on October 8th where the child was pronounced dead that evening. Preliminary results indicated the infant died from head trauma. Court documents state that Mr. Rathman struck the baby's head multiple times and knocked it into a table. It also stated the father had a past history of assault, child abuse and fighting.

S. Joe Now spoke to the mother's sister and infant's aunt, Tracy Johnson, on Tuesday. Ms. Johnson says the couple also had two other boys living under their roof, ages 9 and 11. She says she witnessed child abuse at the home and reported the family to the Children's Division of Missouri's Department of Social Services last year. Ms. Johnson also says DFS visited the infant's home at least two times. She says she offered the family help and does not understand why the child was returned to the home.

Arleasha Mays, Assistant Communications Director of the Missouri Department of Social Services said the department is reviewing the case to determine if they've had contact with the child.. She said she couldn't comment on specifics regarding this case.

St. Joe Now has made open records request for DFS reports on the Rathmans. The department has 72 hours to respond.

Ms. Johnson says the family is struggling and needs help covering the cost of the infants funeral. If you'd like to help, you can send or drop of donations to Bullock Family Funeral Chapel at 1903 Jules Street.