A 20-year-old father is behind bars after police say he assaulted his two-month-old son, leaving the child hospitalized with multiple brain bleeds. The incident occurred on Friday, Sept. 19, just after noon at Stonecrest Apartments off East Main Street in Whitehall.
According to a police report, Hunter Dalton became enraged when he could not find his vaping device. He allegedly kicked the family dog, assaulted his girlfriend, and threatened to kill both her and their baby. Dalton’s girlfriend told investigators that he had strangled and attacked her on prior occasions.
During the outburst on Friday, she said Dalton threw her to the ground and hurled a fan across the room. She managed to escape to the apartment leasing office, where she called 911. When officers arrived, they found the infant in a crib, unresponsive and struggling to breathe.
Dalton denied harming the child, telling police he had only moved his son from a bouncy seat to the crib. However, he was the last person with the baby before the police arrived. The infant was rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where doctors discovered numerous brain bleeds.
Neurosurgeons are closely monitoring the child’s condition. Despite the severity of the injuries, officials say he is expected to survive, according to Columbus ABC affiliate WSYX.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the young child who was the victim of this horrific act,” said Whitehall Chief Deputy of Police Shawn Wilson. “We remain hopeful for his full recovery and ask the community to join us in supporting him and his family during this difficult time.
We also want to commend the outstanding work of our patrol and detective divisions, whose response to this case was marked by professionalism, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice. This is an ongoing investigation, and we will provide updates as necessary.”
Franklin County Children’s Services confirmed the family had no prior contact with the agency. “Anytime we have news of a child, whether they’re connected to this agency or not, who is abused, beaten, neglected, or murdered by the person who should be the most wanting to see them healthy and safe, it literally hurts my heart,” said Scott Varner, spokesperson for the agency.
Dalton was arrested and charged with felonious assault and domestic violence. He was arraigned Monday in Franklin County Court, where a judge set his bond at $1 million. The investigation is ongoing as the baby continues to fight for recovery under hospital care.