A horrifying case out of Michigan has taken a chilling turn as authorities formally charged the biological mother and stepfather of 22-year-old Rebecca Kay Park with murder and torture following the discovery of her body — and the terrifying allegation that her unborn baby was violently removed from her womb.
Body Found in Michigan Forest After Weeks-Long Search
Rebecca Kay Park had been reported missing on November 3, after she was last seen getting into a vehicle outside her mother’s home in Boon Township, Wexford County. At the time, she was approximately 38 weeks pregnant — just days away from her due date. The urgency around her disappearance prompted a widespread search effort.
On November 25, searchers found a body in the Manistee National Forest that matched Rebecca’s description. An autopsy later confirmed the remains belonged to her. Disturbingly, the autopsy revealed that she was no longer pregnant — and law enforcement confirmed her unborn baby was also deceased.
Mother and Stepfather Arrested and Charged With First-Degree Murder and Torture
On December 2, prosecutors announced that Rebecca’s biological mother, Cortney Bartholomew (40), and her stepfather, Bradly Bartholomew (47), were arraigned in 84th District Court in Cadillac, Michigan. Both face a slate of severe charges, including first-degree murder, felony murder, torture, assault on a pregnant individual causing miscarriage or stillbirth, conspiracy, unlawful imprisonment, and removal of a dead body. Each count carries a potential life sentence.
During the arraignment, prosecutors accused the couple of luring Rebecca to their home on November 3, forcing her into a vehicle, and driving her to the forest. There, they allegedly stabbed her, ordered her to lie on the ground, and forcibly removed her unborn baby — a violent act that resulted in the deaths of both mother and child. The prosecutor described the crime as “evil personified.”
Both suspects were denied bond during their court appearance. The prosecutor declined to disclose a motive, but emphasized the extraordinary violence of the alleged crime.
Additional Arrests in the Case: Sister and Fiancé Also in Custody
Following the body’s discovery, two additional individuals connected to Park — her younger sister, Kimberly Park (21), and her fiancé, Richard Lee Falor (43) — were arrested. While neither is charged in connection with the murder, Kimberly faces charges including tampering with evidence, lying to police, and filing a false report. Falor is charged with controlled substance offenses, specifically manufacturing and delivering methamphetamine.
Authorities say the investigation remains active. Law enforcement agencies continue working to determine the condition and whereabouts of the missing baby, as well as gather additional evidence.
Community Reaction and Demand for Justice
The brutal nature of the alleged crime has shocked the small northern Michigan community. Dozens of people packed the courtroom during the arraignment. Many vehicles in the parking lot bore slogans such as “Justice 4 Rebecca and Baby Park” and “We are her voice.” Family members and friends described Rebecca as a sweet, unassuming young woman whose life — and the life of her baby — was cruelly taken.
In a joint statement, local authorities urged patience and understanding while the investigation continues, emphasizing they are exhausting all leads and forensic analysis to secure justice for Rebecca and her child.
This case underscores the darkest possibilities in human behavior and leaves many unanswered questions — including the motive behind the crime and the fate of the unborn child. As the legal process unfolds, much remains to be revealed.
We want to hear from you — what are your thoughts on this harrowing case and how communities can support victims and their families?