FOX31 Denver

Father enters insanity plea in crash that nearly killed son

CENTENNIAL, Colo. — The father charged with attempted murder for allegedly trying to kill his 2-year-old son in a car crash pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity in an Arapahoe County courtroom on Thursday.

The judge ordered Nathan Weitzel, 30, to undergo a mental health evaluation. Weitzel is alleged to have crashed his car at 65-70 mph with his unrestrained son in the vehicle.

Weitzel’s son suffered a broken leg, a concussion and a cut to his forehead that required 20 stitches in the crash on Aug. 21 in Centennial.

Investigators said Weitzel told them he purposely crashed his car because being a father is a big responsibility and he did not think he was man enough to raise a child.

Weitzel is facing numerous charges, including attempted first-degree murder and child abuse.

Weitzel is due back in court on July 6.