Infant dies after Mom's boyfriend allegedly bashed in her skull during assault

A Tragedy in the Bronx: The Death of Imani Mitchell and the Shadows of Domestic Violence

In a harrowing case that has shaken the Bronx community, 1-year-old Imani Mitchell lost her life following a brutal assault allegedly carried out by her mother’s boyfriend, Jerome Thomas.

The incident occurred on the evening of August 28, inside a Woodstock apartment where Thomas had been entrusted with babysitting the child. 

According to prosecutors, the 19-year-old suspect struck Imani twice on the side of her head with what was described as a “heavy hand,” leaving her in critical condition.

Imani was rushed to Harlem Hospital, where doctors discovered extensive subdural hemorrhaging on the right side of her head. The swelling and intracranial pressure led to brain herniation, necessitating emergency surgery to remove part of her skull in a desperate attempt to save her life. 

Despite being placed on life support, the toddler succumbed to her injuries on September 5. Her death has since been ruled a homicide by the NYPD.

Jerome Thomas was initially arrested the day after the assault and charged with felony assault, reckless endangerment, and endangering the welfare of a child. He is currently being held without bail on Rikers Island, and authorities have indicated that the charges may be upgraded following Imani’s death. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 18.

Neighbors have expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy, revealing that the couple had recently moved into the building. One neighbor, Nicole LaCroix, recalled holding Imani and described her as an active and playful child. 

LaCroix also noted frequent arguments between the couple, suggesting a volatile domestic environment that may have foreshadowed the violence to come.

This case has reignited conversations around child welfare, domestic violence, and the systems in place to protect vulnerable children.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community mourns the loss of a life cut tragically short and grapples with the painful reminder of the consequences of unchecked violence within the home.