Megan Boswell Found Guilty of Murdering Daughter Evelyn

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WCYB) — The jury in the murder trial of Megan Boswell has reached a verdict, finding her guilty on all 19 charges related to the death of her 1-year-old daughter, Evelyn Boswell. The jury began deliberations on Wednesday afternoon and returned with their decision the following morning, February 13, 2025.

The case drew nationwide attention in February 2020 when an Amber Alert was issued for Evelyn, leading to a weeks-long search before her remains were discovered inside a trash can on family property. The trial has revealed sobering details surrounding the circumstances of Evelyn’s death.

During the proceedings, the defense argued there was insufficient evidence to prove conclusively that Evelyn was murdered, claiming she may have died from natural causes. Defense attorney Gene Scott pointed out that the prosecution had failed to determine a definitive cause of death and that no premeditation was evident. Scott emphasized that ample proof existed to support claims that Boswell was a good mother.

Conversely, Assistant District Attorney Amber Massengill discussed the evidence that indicated foul play. She noted the condition of Evelyn’s remains—wrapped in a blanket and placed in a trash can—as critical to establishing intent for murder. Massengill reminded the jury that Megan had posted about her life on social media while Evelyn lay hidden, reinforcing the prosecution’s narrative of negligence and disregard.

Judge Jim Goodwin presided over the trial and provided the jury with detailed instructions before deliberations. He noted that to convict Boswell of first-degree murder, jurors must conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that she had unlawfully killed her daughter with intent.

Key testimony came from Dr. Darinka Mileusnic-Polchan, the chief medical examiner, who stated, “There was no other reason for this child to be dead.” The defense repeatedly pressed her for a simple yes or no answer regarding whether Evelyn was alive when her body was discarded, which led to lengthy discussions about the intricacies of forensic evidence.

The trial also featured testimony from a DNA expert and a latent print expert, who corroborated the state’s evidence linking Boswell directly to the crime scene. Cell phone data was also introduced, suggesting perplexing inconsistencies in Boswell’s statements throughout the investigation.

As the trial progressed, the judge sequestered the jury to ensure their safety and maintain the integrity of the deliberation process, citing the high-profile nature of the case as a key reason. The jurors were kept at a hotel with limited access to outside information to prevent bias.

The verdict on all counts, including charges of first-degree murder, abuse, and neglect, was delivered amid heightened emotions from the courtroom audience. Following the announcement, Judge Goodwin indicated that sentencing for Boswell would follow in due time.