Louisville, KY – A Louisville woman has been indicted on multiple felony charges after allegedly attacking her 6-year-old daughter with a hammer, leaving the child in critical condition.
Police Respond to Brutal Assault
According to the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), officers were dispatched to a home on Wilson Avenue at approximately 12:45 p.m. on June 19 after receiving a report that a mother had struck her child in the head with a hammer.
Upon arrival, police found the girl unconscious with significant head trauma. She was rushed to Norton Children’s Hospital, where she was listed in critical condition. Due to the severity of her injuries, the case was immediately transferred to the LMPD Homicide Unit.
Child’s Recovery and Safety
Authorities confirmed that the young girl was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday and is now staying with family members. Police have not released further details on her long-term prognosis but say she is safe and no longer in immediate danger.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The suspect, Zeinab Abdi, 40, was arrested the same day of the incident. She was arraigned on June 20 on charges of attempted murder and domestic violence, entering a plea of not guilty. Her bond was set at $500,000.
On Tuesday, a Jefferson County grand jury formally indicted Abdi on charges of:
- Attempted murder
- Assault
- Criminal abuse of a victim under 12
Her arraignment on the indictment is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Monday, August 11 in Jefferson County Circuit Court.
Suspect’s Confession Raises Alarm
Court records from Abdi’s June 19 arrest cite a disturbing admission. Abdi allegedly told investigators she “frequently becomes extremely angry and has difficulty controlling herself”. She reportedly confessed to striking her daughter in the head with a hammer multiple times.
According to police, Abdi’s son witnessed the attack and physically restrained his mother. During the struggle, she allegedly told him, “let me finish her,” while attempting to reach the injured child again.
Community Outrage and Ongoing Investigation
The case has sparked outrage among local residents and child advocacy groups, many of whom are calling for harsher penalties in cases involving violence against children. Authorities have not disclosed whether any prior reports of domestic abuse were filed in connection with Abdi before this incident.
The LMPD continues to investigate, and prosecutors say they will pursue the maximum penalty allowed under Kentucky law if Abdi is convicted.
What do you think should be done to protect children in violent home situations? Share your thoughts in the comments.
