Coatesville, PA – A 44-year-old Coatesville man has been charged with attempted homicide after police say he stabbed his 3-month-old child inside a Smithbridge Drive home and later threw the infant into the snow during a confrontation with the child’s mother.
The Coatesville Police Department and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office identified the defendant as Michael Phillips. He is charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault and related offenses. Authorities said he is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday afternoon.
According to the criminal complaint, officers responded around 11:36 a.m. to a reported stabbing in the 2000 block of Smithbridge Drive. When police arrived, the child’s mother told investigators the defendant made statements about having to sacrifice the baby and approached her with a knife, attempting to stab the infant multiple times. The child was struck once in the abdomen.
The mother told officers she grabbed the infant and her 9-year-old son and fled the residence. Once outside, the older child ran for help. Police allege the defendant followed them, took the baby from the mother’s arms and threw the infant into the snow. The mother then shielded the child with her body until first responders arrived.
As of Wednesday night, the infant remained hospitalized and receiving treatment. No additional details on the child’s condition were released.
- Defendant charged with attempted homicide and aggravated assault
- Infant stabbed once in the abdomen, remains hospitalized
- Incident occurred on Smithbridge Drive around 11:36 a.m.
Investigation and response
District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe said responding officers and emergency medical personnel acted quickly to provide care. Coatesville Police Chief Jack Laufer also commended first responders for their actions at the scene.
First responders included city police officers, Washington Hose Ambulance Company and Westwood Paramedic Company. Officers prioritized rapid transport due to the risks associated with delayed medical intervention.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office said the investigation remains active, with assistance from Chester County Detectives and regional law enforcement partners. Additional case updates are expected through regional Chester County crime reporting channels as court proceedings move forward.
Phillips is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.