Fort Wayne, Indiana – Authorities in northeastern Indiana say a babysitter is facing serious felony charges after allegedly striking a 7-month-old boy in the face with such force that he suffered a brain bleed and extensive bruising. Investigators say medical experts found no explanation for the child’s injuries other than abuse.
Incident Reported at Fort Wayne Hospital
According to the Fort Wayne Police Department, officers were called to a local hospital on December 11 after doctors reported an infant had arrived with severe and unexplained injuries. The child had been left in the care of a babysitter earlier that morning and was later found to have significant trauma to his head and face.
Police identified the suspect as Emily Duran, 27, who was caring for the child at a residence in the 100 block of West Superior Street on the day of the incident.
Timeline of Events Leading to the Injuries
Court documents state the child’s parents dropped off their 7-month-old son with Duran shortly before 7 a.m. The baby was reportedly healthy and showed no signs of injury at the time.
When the parents returned home around 5 p.m., they said Duran left quickly. Only after she departed did they notice what investigators later described as deep purple bruising stretching across the infant’s face, from the jawline to the hairline.
Concerned, the parents contacted Duran, who later sent a text message claiming the baby had fallen earlier in the day.
Conflicting Explanations Raise Alarm
According to a probable cause arrest affidavit, the parents recorded a follow-up phone call with the babysitter. During that conversation, Duran allegedly told them she had taken the baby to a park, where he fell off a bench.
Doctors who examined the child at the hospital reportedly found this explanation inconsistent with the injuries. Medical imaging revealed the infant was suffering from a brain bleed, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Medical experts later concluded there was “no explanation other than child abuse,” according to the affidavit. They determined the injuries were inflicted and could not have occurred accidentally.
Police Interview and Alleged Confession
Investigators located Duran later that week and brought her in for questioning. After being advised of her Miranda rights, police say she admitted to striking the child.
According to the affidavit, Duran told detectives she slapped the baby on one side of his face and backhanded him on the other, describing the force as “as hard as you would slap an adult.”
Police say the admission aligned with the location and severity of the infant’s injuries.
Charges Filed Against Babysitter
Duran has been charged with multiple felony counts, including:
- Neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury
- Battery to a child under 14 by a person at least 18 resulting in serious bodily injury
Both charges carry significant prison time if she is convicted.
Following the interview, Duran was taken into custody and booked into the Allen County Jail. Jail records indicate she has since posted bond.
Court Proceedings and What Comes Next
Authorities confirmed that Duran’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 12. At that hearing, a judge is expected to review the charges and determine how the case will proceed through the court system.
The infant’s current condition has not been publicly detailed beyond the initial diagnosis, but officials say the case remains under active investigation.
Broader Concerns About Infant Abuse
Law enforcement officials and medical professionals frequently warn that infants are especially vulnerable to head trauma. Even a single strike can cause internal bleeding, swelling, or long-term neurological damage. Doctors emphasize that injuries such as brain bleeds in non-mobile infants are a major red flag for abuse.
Police urge parents to seek immediate medical attention if a child shows unexplained bruising, lethargy, vomiting, or changes in behavior after being left in someone else’s care.
Conclusion
What began as a routine day of childcare has now turned into a serious criminal case with potentially life-altering consequences for a young child. Investigators say the medical evidence and the babysitter’s own statements point to deliberate violence rather than an accident.
As the case moves forward in court, authorities say protecting the child and ensuring accountability remain their top priorities.
If you or someone you know has concerns about child safety or suspected abuse, contact local law enforcement or child protective services immediately. Share your experiences in the comments below.
