Saquan Meekins, 22, was trying to teach Jon Jon Jackson, 10, how to swim at a pool. Investigators say Meekins engaged in rough play with the boy in the pool, and he has been charged with homicide by abuse.

At a bail hearing Thursday, Meekins' lawyer suggested that Jon Jon might have inhaled water while showering, The Charleston Post and Courier reported. The lawyer, Mark Peper, said Jon Jon had dirtied himself while swimming and was washed with water from a hose at the pool and then took a shower at home.

Peper said witnesses he has talked to say Meekins was not rough or abusive the day Jon Jon died. His supporters include Jon Jon's mother, Cassandra Jackson.