New York, NY – A heartbreaking incident occurred in the South Bronx last week where a 1-year-old baby girl was critically injured after her mother’s 19-year-old boyfriend allegedly punched her multiple times in the head. Authorities report that the infant underwent emergency surgery to remove part of her skull following the attack.
The man, Jerome Thomas, was arrested and charged with first-degree assault and child endangerment by the New York Police Department (NYPD). The shocking assault took place inside an apartment on Thursday, and the baby was immediately rushed to Harlem Hospital in critical but stable condition.
The Horrifying Incident and Immediate Medical Response
According to police reports and a criminal complaint, officers responding to an emergency call found the baby’s head and face severely swollen, with a notably bruised left eye. The infant was semi-conscious and struggling to breathe upon arrival. Doctors diagnosed her with severe subdural hemorrhaging on the right side of her head.
To alleviate the dangerous swelling and intracranial pressure, the medical team was forced to surgically remove a portion of the baby’s skull. She was also placed on a ventilator and life support to stabilize her condition.
Details from the Investigation and Arrest
Police revealed that the girl’s mother had left her in Thomas’ care for approximately 45 minutes. Upon returning, she found the baby severely bruised and injured on the bed. Thomas reportedly admitted to authorities that he struck the child twice on the side of her head with a “heavy hand,” causing the infant to cry.
Jerome Thomas was arrested the following day and arraigned in Bronx Criminal Court, where he pleaded not guilty and was ordered held without bail. He is scheduled to appear in court on September 4.
Community Concerns and Background on the Relationship
Neighbors in the apartment building have expressed alarm over the domestic disputes involving Thomas and the child’s mother. One resident told The New York Post that she frequently heard loud arguments and verbal altercations coming from the apartment.
“They fight every night. I’ve heard them argue every night since they moved here… ‘F–k you, b—h.’ And ‘Get the f–k out.’ Several times she put his clothes out, but they’d be back together the same day,” the neighbor said.
Though Thomas is dating the child’s mother, he is not the biological father.
Keeping Up With the Case
Investigators have been seen transporting evidence from the Bronx home as part of the ongoing probe. For more detailed updates on this and related stories.
- Victim: 1-year-old baby girl critical condition
- Suspect: Jerome Thomas, 19 years old
- Charges: First-degree assault and child endangerment
- Location: South Bronx, New York City
- Medical actions: Skull surgery, ventilator, life support
- Court date: September 4
What Comes Next?
The community and authorities await further developments as this distressing case advances through the legal system. Public officials and child welfare advocates stress the importance of vigilance and support for victims of domestic violence.
