Two Indiana parents are facing criminal charges after their 2-month-old son was admitted to the hospital with severe injuries, including 11 rib fractures and bleeding from the eyes. The parents initially tried to explain the injuries as the result of “gassy” symptoms and a tight car seat, but doctors’ examinations revealed otherwise.
The Incident
Lindsey Davis, 34, and MacQuell Davis Jr., 30, are accused of neglecting their child, who was brought to the hospital in Evansville on April 21 with serious injuries.
The infant was reportedly suffering from “gas” and was admitted to the hospital for several days. However, X-rays and medical exams revealed the child had suffered five fractures on his right side and six on his left.
According to police, the injuries appeared to have occurred about a week before the baby was taken to the hospital. Despite the severity of the injuries, the parents initially denied any knowledge of how the child sustained them.
The Parents’ Explanations
During police interviews, Lindsey Davis allegedly admitted that she had noticed blood in her son’s eyes about a week before bringing him to the hospital, but she chose to keep him at home instead of seeking medical help.
She claimed that one of their other children had experienced similar symptoms when younger and was fine. Davis also suggested that the injuries could have been caused by the baby’s car seat being too tight.
MacQuell Davis, the father, denied knowing anything about the baby’s injuries. He claimed that he was unaware of any drops or accidents involving the child. Despite the parents’ explanations, medical professionals classified the baby’s injuries as being inflicted, consistent with physical abuse.
Criminal Charges and Child Welfare
Both parents have been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury. They are currently being held at the Vanderburgh County Jail on $25,000 bonds. Their children have been placed in the care of a family member while the investigation continues.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by vulnerable children and the responsibility parents have to ensure their safety. As the investigation proceeds, authorities are working to determine the full extent of the parents’ actions and the welfare of their other children.
