Calgary pastor accused of killing infant son sees murder charge downgraded to manslaughter

The Calgary pastor originally accused of murdering his infant son will now go to trial on the lesser charge of manslaughter.

Three-month-old Cyrus Nel died under suspicious circumstances in 2015. His father, Daniel Nel, 31, was charged with second-degree murder nearly two years later.

On Friday, defence lawyer Chris Archer and prosecutor Shane Parker agreed Nelwould be tried for manslaughter instead of murder.

No reasons were given.

On Aug.21, 2015, someone in the baby'sTaradalehome called 911.When first responders arrived, they foundCyrusin medical distress. He died in hospital a day later.

After a lengthy investigation that involved consulting pediatric specialists, Nel was charged in May 2017.

• Calgary pastor charged with 2nd-degree murder in baby son's death

Nel wasan associate pastor at the RockyviewAlliance Church in Pineridge. He was put on administrative leave just before the charge was laid.

Police won't say how the boy died.Nel is free on bail.

A three-week jury trial will be booked next month.