A Florida man has been arrested after authorities say he dangled and dropped a child headfirst off a hotel balcony, causing serious injuries. The shocking incident occurred at a hotel in Daytona Beach, Florida, and has left the community shaken.
A Florida man's reckless actions have resulted in an aggravated child abuse charge after he allegedly dangled and dropped a child headfirst from a hotel balcony. The incident, which unfolded at the Sandlewood Resort in Daytona Beach on Saturday afternoon, has left the child hospitalized and the community reeling in disbelief.
According to the Daytona Beach Police Department, 31-year-old Brandon Gilmore was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse. The incident occurred after Gilmore met a woman at a hotel pool and asked if he could take her son outside to play.
Reckless Florida Man Drops Child Headfirst from Second-Story Hotel Balcony
However, Gilmore's actions escalated quickly. He allegedly picked up the child by his legs and dangled him over the second-story balcony. Witnesses reported seeing the child screaming in terror before he was dropped headfirst onto the ground below.
Both Gilmore and the woman had been drinking at the pool at the time of the incident, according to police. Gilmore reportedly admitted to police that he had met the woman hours prior and asked for permission to take her son outside. He claimed that he intended to "scare him a little bit."
Reckless Florida Man Drops Child Headfirst from Second-Story Hotel Balcony
Video surveillance cameras captured the incident, which verified the witness statements. The child, who was not identified, was taken to a hospital for treatment. Thankfully, he is expected to make a full recovery and is not anticipated to suffer any long-term health problems as a result of the incident.
Gilmore remains in custody at the Volusia County Jail without bond. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further charges may be filed.
Reckless Florida Man Drops Child Headfirst from Second-Story Hotel Balcony
The incident has sparked outrage and concern in the community. Child welfare advocates have condemned Gilmore's actions, calling them "heinous" and "unconscionable." They have also raised concerns about the lax security at the hotel, which allowed Gilmore to endanger a child's life.
The Daytona Beach Police Department has urged parents and caregivers to be vigilant in protecting their children. They remind the public that any suspicious behavior should be reported immediately to authorities.
