Child’s injuries led hospital staff to uncover alleged cover up
PITTSBURGH, PA — A woman who told authorities her 4-year-old son had been attacked by the family dog is now facing criminal charges after hospital staff determined the child’s injuries were actually caused by a gunshot, according to Allegheny County Police.
The investigation began at 9:21 p.m. on June 23 when Allegheny County 9-1-1 received a report of a dog attack at a home in the 100 block of Rankin Boulevard.
Responding officers found the 4-year-old boy suffering from injuries to his wrist and pelvic region. He was taken to UPMC Children’s Hospital for treatment.
The following day, hospital personnel contacted the Allegheny County Police Department’s Homicide Unit after determining the child’s injuries were not consistent with a dog attack. Medical staff concluded the injuries appeared to have been caused by a single gunshot wound to the pelvis.
According to investigators, witness interviews revealed that 42-year-old Ruth Hicks left a firearm inside her purse in the living room while two children were playing there unsupervised.
Detectives also allege Hicks instructed a third juvenile to dispose of evidence following the shooting, including ammunition and a spent shell casing.
Hicks has been charged with multiple offenses, including endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors and tampering with physical evidence.
Police have not released additional information about the child’s condition or whether any other charges are anticipated.
Key Points
- Police said a reported dog attack was later determined to be a gunshot injury to a 4-year-old child.
- Investigators allege a loaded gun was left accessible while children played unsupervised.
- A Rankin woman is charged with child endangerment, corruption of minors and tampering with physical evidence.
