BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio — A 20-year-old Belmont County woman accused of killing her 1-year-old child made her first court appearance Monday following a fatal shooting in Morristown.
Autum Sky Palmer appeared by video from the Belmont County Jail, where she is being held in connection with the death of her child, identified in court records by the initials A.S.
The child died Friday following a shooting at a residence on Buttermilk Road in Morristown. Records indicate the child had been born in July 2025 and was one year and three days old at the time of death.
During Monday’s hearing, Belmont County Western Division Court Judge Eric Costine informed Palmer of the murder charge against her and the potential penalties she could face if convicted.
Those penalties could include 20, 25 or 30 years to life in prison, or life without the possibility of parole. An additional three-year prison term could also apply because of a firearm specification attached to the charge.
Palmer requested that a public defender be appointed to represent her.
The court ordered Palmer to remain in the Belmont County Jail without bond while she undergoes a psychological evaluation. Officials also indicated there are concerns regarding Palmer’s potential for self-harm, and precautions have been taken while she remains in custody.
Court officials also clarified confusion surrounding Palmer’s last name. Authorities said Palmer is her maiden name. She previously used the married name Stotelmyer but returned to Palmer following her divorce.
Palmer is scheduled to return to court for a preliminary hearing on Aug. 11.
The case remains pending, and the charge against Palmer is an allegation. She is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
