DAYTON — A 16-month-old child is fighting for their life after doctors discovered a skull fracture, brain bleed, and bruises.
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As reported on News Center 7 at 6:00, this investigation unfolded quickly early Wednesday morning, after a toddler arrived at Dayton Children’s Hospital with serious injuries.
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Police were called to the hospital and took a 30-year-old Chad Merrill into custody about six hours later.
He’s accused of child endangerment, but police believe he abused the 16-month-old child.
“Medical professionals stated that the injuries were consistent with abuse,” a spokesperson with Dayton police told News Center 7.
Authorities suspect the injuries happened at a home on Silverdome Drive.
They think Merrill lived there with his girlfriend, the child’s mother.
In court, Merrill pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The judge said he’s read a safety assessment from pre-trial services that likely included what was listed in court documents.
“Merrill admitted to multiple incidents where the child was injured, including throwing the child into the wooden frame of a crib prior to a snowstorm on January 26, 2026. Mr. Merrill also admitted to causing the bruises on the child’s buttocks from smacking him,” a police detective wrote in court documents.
Merrill’s bond was set at $250,000 cash or surety, plus electronic home detention.
Police have not provided an update on the child’s condition.
News Center 7 will continue to follow this story.
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