Tragedy in Maryland: a Baby Dead, a Young Girl Charged

A baby is dead, and an 11-year-old girl is being tied to his death. CNN reports that 1-year-old Paxton Davis died Thursday, four days after he was admitted to a Maryland hospital with "severe injuries to his upper body," per a Prince George's County Police Department release. Although Paxton had been left in the charge of an adult, that woman ran out to take care of an errand on Sunday morning and left him alone with her 11-year-old daughter in their Suitland home, police say; the girl admits that's when she assaulted the baby, who isn't related to her, causing his injuries. Per NBC Washington, an adult called 911 upon returning to the home.

Shortly after 3pm that day, police were called to the hospital where Paxton was brought. "It was clear from the beginning that the injuries Paxton suffered were not consistent with the normal play of a 1-year-old," Prince George's County Police Maj. Brian Reilly said at a Friday presser. CNN notes that in Maryland, those who watch another child have to be at least 13. "I can't say yes, I can't say no," Reilly said regarding whether the girl's mother would face charges. He added that he can't fathom why the 11-year-old may have done this. The girl, who was charged with first-degree child abuse, has been sent to a juvenile facility. An investigation is ongoing. (More child abuse stories.)