What injuries did the three-month-old boy sustain?

The three-month-old boy sustained severe brain injuries, a ruptured pupil, and a dented skull, requiring emergency medical treatment including surgeries and skull removal.

What was the babysitter's explanation for the infant's injuries?

The babysitter initially told the infant's parents she had fallen on the child, but medical professionals determined the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

What warning did the Madera County Sheriff's Office issue?

The Madera County Sheriff's Office warned that shaking a baby can cause permanent brain injury or death and advised seeking help if feeling overwhelmed.

Home / Crime and Justice / Infant Suffers Severe Brain Injury from Alleged Shaking

Infant Suffers Severe Brain Injury from Alleged Shaking

29 Jan

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Summary

A three-month-old boy sustained severe brain injuries and a dented skull.
His babysitter was arrested for felony child abuse in central California.
Medical professionals stated the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

Infant Suffers Severe Brain Injury from Alleged Shaking

A three-month-old boy, Braxton Musselman, is in critical condition with severe brain injuries and a dented skull after his babysitter allegedly shook him violently. The incident occurred in Madera, central California, leading to the arrest of 50-year-old Tonya Hamilton for felony child abuse.

Responding deputies found the infant unresponsive. He was rushed to a local hospital where he underwent emergency head surgery. Braxton's parents reported receiving a FaceTime call from Hamilton, who initially claimed she had fallen on the child. However, doctors determined the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

Braxton's parents revealed he suffered a ruptured pupil and severe brain swelling, necessitating the removal of the right half of his skull to alleviate pressure. After over a week in intensive care, he was removed from sedation and his breathing tube. Anti-seizure medication was required due to the brain damage, which initially caused minimal movement on his left side.