Kerrod James Frahm charged with manslaughter over son’s death

A 31-year-old Murgon father has returned to court on a manslaughter charge with his lawyer saying it couldn’t be proven he caused the death of his 11-year-old son from a snakebite.

A Murgon father charged with his son’s snakebite death claims he didn’t know the boy had been bitten and it would be impossible for police to prove otherwise.

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Kerrod James Frahm, 31, faced Murgon Magistrates Court on Tuesday, for a manslaughter charge over the November 2021 death of his son, Tristian.

Police have previously alleged Mr Frahm failed to seek medical attention after the boy was bitten by a snake while the pair were at a friend’s property.

Tristian Frahm died in November last year after being bitten by a snake. Picture: Supplied

Police will allege he did not take Tristian seriously and failed to seek medical attention when the boy said that afternoon he had been bitten.

The 11-year-old’s body was found outside the shed he had been sleeping in the following morning.

It’s understood Tristian may have got out of bed during the night to be sick when he passed away outside.

Tristian was a much loved member of his family, described as a “little hero” and an “angel” by one of his close relatives.

“I’m so beyond lost for words and the heart break is unimaginable. I’m still in disbelief,” they wrote in a post at the time of Tristian’s death.

“I love you more than I ever thought possible, I’m missing you more and more every minute, there’ll be a you-sized hole in my heart forever.”

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Kerrod Frahm leaves Murgon Magistrates Court on Tuesday with his lawyer Andrew Bale and a family supporter following his appearance on a manslaughter charge over the death of his son. Picture: Liam Kidston

Represented by lawyer Andrew Bale, Mr Frahm sat calmly as his matter was briefly mentioned.

No pleas were entered.

Mr Bale has sought a brief of evidence from police, and the matter was adjourned until March 7, 2023.

Mr Frahm was supported by family sitting at the back of the gallery during his appearance, and as he left the courthouse accompanied by Mr Bale.

As they left, Mr Bale challenged the case presented against his client.

Kerrod Frahm speaks with lawyer Andrew Bale before leaving the Murgon court. Picture: Liam Kidston

“I think it’s pretty clear there’s been a tragedy,” he said.

“The question is whether it’s a tragic accident or something more than that is not a decision for any of us to make.
“It seems to me there is no possible way police can prove my client caused the death.

“That’s what they need to be able to prove in order to succeed.”

Mr Bale said Mr Frahm did not know his son had been bitten by a snake.

“That’s really all there is to it.”