Man with lengthy rap sheet charged with murder in death of Augusta County infant

After a lengthy investigation, an Augusta County man has been charged with the murder of an infant child that died in April.

Damian David Nesselrodt, 31, formerly of Weyers Cave, is currently in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections on unrelated charges. The indictments were served by the Wise County Sheriff’s Office.

An Augusta County grand jury charged Nesselrodt by indictment for 18.2-32, Murder-First degree, 18.2-33 Felony Homicide, and 18.2-271.1 Felony Abuse and Neglect of Children.

“Our hearts go out to the family for this tragic loss. The death of an infant is an unimaginable tragedy for the family and the community,” said Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith. “The Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to make sure that justice is served.”

On April 8, 2023, the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office and Weyers Cave Fire and Rescue responded to a residence in the Weyers Cave area for an unresponsive infant who was found not breathing. Fire and rescue personnel attempted life-saving measures on the child that were unsuccessful.

The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office and Child Protective Services launched an investigation. The ACSO worked with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death.

After a lengthy investigation, the manner of this infant child’s death was ruled homicide by the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Nesselrodt has faced additional charges of probation violation, shoplifting, grand larceny, drug possession and assault and battery in Augusta County, Rockingham County, Harrisonburg and Staunton courts, according to online records.