“He basically took my son’s life,” 10-month-old boy suffered lifelong injuries after his mother’s fiancé “squeezed” the baby to stop him from crying as soon as he dropped the boy on his head

Missouri – In a tragic incident in Missouri, a 10-month-old boy named Waylon is now grappling with severe and life-altering injuries allegedly inflicted by his mother’s fiancé. The incident has stirred conversations around child safety and the paramount importance of protecting the most vulnerable.

On September 14, at around 8 p.m., the sheriff’s office received a distressing call from a residence. The caller reported a baby who was not breathing. First responders rushed to the scene to find Waylon unconscious, although he was still breathing at the time. The urgency of the situation prompted a quick transfer to a hospital, and subsequently, he was moved to a children’s hospital for specialized care.

Upon arrival at the children’s hospital, medical staff noted visible marks on Waylon’s forehead and ear. Given his critical state, a full body x-ray was deemed too risky; however, a CT scan revealed two small brain bleeds and collapsed lungs—a clear indication of severe trauma. These alarming findings led the medical staff to notify the authorities, suspecting foul play.

J. Boggess, the 28-year-old fiancé of Waylon’s mother, became the primary suspect in the case. Law enforcement officers found Boggess asleep at the home and, upon waking him and administering his Miranda rights, learned the disturbing details of the incident. Boggess confessed that he had been “tossing” Waylon in the air in an attempt to comfort him after the child vomited and screamed. Tragically, during one such toss, Waylon fell and hit his head. In a panic, Boggess admitted to “bear hugging” the child too tightly in a misguided attempt to quiet him, which likely exacerbated the baby’s injuries.

The medical team diagnosed Waylon with abusive head trauma and other signs of physical abuse. Boggess was subsequently arrested and charged with felony child abuse. He remains in custody at the county’s jail, held without bond.

The aftermath of this abuse has been devastating. Waylon’s father, T. Burbridge, has spoken out about the severity of his son’s condition, noting that Waylon has “basically been reset to a newborn.” The child is now unable to see, sit up, or lift his head without assistance, facing a long road of physical therapy and recovery ahead.

“He has basically been reset to a newborn,” Burbridge said in an interview, expressing his anguish over the irreversible harm done to his son. “He basically took my son’s life. He took my son’s future. You don’t toss a baby into the air,” he added, reflecting the profound betrayal and the impact of Boggess’s actions.

Waylon was discharged from the hospital on October 24 and is currently recuperating at home under the care of his mother. The family remains focused on his recovery, hoping for progress in his ability to regain basic motor functions and ultimately, a semblance of a normal life.

The case is set to continue in the legal system, with Boggess scheduled for a court appearance on December 13. The community, while relieved at the arrest, remains shaken by the severity and the senseless nature of the violence against a defenseless child.

This case has also sparked broader discussions on the signs of child abuse, the responsibilities of caregivers, and the critical need for intervention in situations where children are at risk. As Waylon’s struggle continues, it serves as a poignant reminder of the vigilance needed to protect children from harm and the severe consequences of abuse.