New York City Baby Dies After Mother’s Boyfriend Attacked Her Head

Toddler Dies After Assault by Mother’s Boyfriend

A one-year-old girl, Imani Mitchell, tragically passed away following a severe assault allegedly committed by her mother’s boyfriend. The incident occurred on August 28th, and she was taken to Harlem Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries about a week later.

Jerome Thomas, 19, was reportedly responsible for watching Imani when he struck her on the head with a significant force. Prosecutors detailed that the child suffered from a “heavy hand” attack on the side of her head.

Imani had a serious brain injury, including extensive subdural hemorrhage, which caused swelling and increased pressure inside her skull, leading to a brain herniation. Despite undergoing surgery to relieve some of this pressure by removing part of her skull, she did not survive, and was placed on a ventilator in hopes of recovery.

She was declared dead on a Friday at the hospital, and authorities have classified her death as a homicide.

Following the incident, Thomas was arrested the next day and charged with felony assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Reports suggest he is currently being held without bail at Rikers Island, with the possibility of further charges pending.

Allegations indicate that the assault happened at an apartment where Thomas was responsible for caring for Imani after her mother left the premises. A neighbor, Nicole Lacroix, mentioned that she had known the couple, spending time with them and even holding the child, who seemed active and playful.

Lacroix expressed some concern, noting she often heard arguments coming from their apartment. She remarked how these disputes seemed frequent, describing overheard phrases that suggested ongoing tension between the couple.