The manslaughter trial of Strathroy resident Meggin Van Hoof entered its second week with continued testimony from the mother of 15-month-old Nathaniel McLellan, who died in October 2015 after suffering a head injury.
Rose-Anne Van De Wiele recounted the days surrounding her son’s collapse while in Van Hoof’s care at an unlicensed daycare in Strathroy. She described how her concerns about the case grew over time, particularly as years passed without charges.
Van De Wiele told the court she became skeptical of the initial police investigation and undertook her own efforts to gather information. She also testified about her growing suspicions regarding Van Hoof’s actions, noting the lack of an emergency call when Nathaniel first showed signs of distress.
Nathaniel died four days after the incident. Van Hoof was charged with manslaughter in 2021, six years later, and has pleaded not guilty.
The trial continues this week in London.
Written by: C. Soares
