FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — A 28-year-old Fairfax County man has been charged with second-degree murder and felony child abuse after investigators say he admitted to fatally beating his 3-month-old daughter inside the family’s home in Bailey’s Crossroads.
Misael Lopez Gomez remains held without bond at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center following the death of the infant, who was pronounced dead at a local hospital after first responders attempted life-saving measures.
Police responded to unresponsive infant
According to the Fairfax County Police Department, officers responded around 7:30 p.m. on March 27 to a home in the 3400 block of Lake Street after receiving a report of an unresponsive infant.
When officers arrived, they found the baby girl not breathing. Police and emergency medical personnel attempted to revive the child before she was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
A preliminary autopsy determined the infant’s cause of death was blunt force trauma.
Investigators said the child had been in the sole care of her father when the injuries occurred. Detectives and hospital staff also observed injuries consistent with physical abuse.
Prosecutors detail alleged confession
During a court hearing this week, prosecutors said Lopez Gomez admitted during a police interview that he punched his daughter four times because he was frustrated with his life and work, according to testimony reported by WUSA9.
Authorities allege Lopez Gomez told investigators the infant became unresponsive after the second punch.
Prosecutors further alleged that after the assault, Lopez Gomez attempted to resuscitate the baby before calling his cousin and uncle into the room for assistance.
According to testimony presented in court, the three men then waited approximately one hour before contacting 911.
Medical examiner cites earlier injuries
Fairfax County Assistant Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Megan Kessler testified that the infant also showed evidence of older injuries.
According to courtroom testimony, the child had callus formations on her ribs, indicating a previous fracture that had begun to heal before her death.
The findings are expected to play a significant role as the criminal case proceeds.
Defense disputes cause of death
During the hearing, Lopez Gomez’s attorney argued the infant had been with a babysitter earlier on the day she died and contended that the alleged punches did not cause the child’s death.
The child’s mother was present in court as prosecutors outlined the allegations.
Lopez Gomez has been charged with second-degree murder and felony child abuse. He remains jailed without bond pending further court proceedings.
