In a shocking incident in Daytona Beach, Florida, a man was arrested after allegedly dangling a child off a hotel balcony and then dropping him headfirst. The incident occurred at the Sandlewood Resort, where 31-year-old Brandon Gilmore was seen holding a 4-year-old boy by one foot before dropping him from the second-story balcony. The child, who suffered blunt force trauma, was hospitalized but is now reported to be in good health. Gilmore has been charged with aggravated child abuse.
The Incident at Sandlewood Resort
On the evening of July 6, Brandon Gilmore met the child’s mother at the hotel pool. They had been drinking and discussing getting piercings together. Gilmore, who had only known the mother for a few hours, offered to take the child to play and “scare him a little bit.” He then took the boy to the balcony, where he held him upside down by his legs over the edge.
Witnesses reported hearing the child’s screams before seeing him fall headfirst onto the concrete below. The child’s mother rushed out to retrieve him and took him back into the room. Surveillance footage captured the entire incident, corroborating the witness testimonies. The child was immediately taken to the hospital as a trauma alert due to the seriousness of his injuries.
Legal Consequences and Public Reaction
Following the incident, Gilmore was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse. He is currently being held at the Volusia County Jail. The arrest affidavit details the events leading up to the incident, including Gilmore’s interactions with the child’s mother and his intentions to “scare” the child. The affidavit also includes statements from two eyewitnesses who saw the child fall and the subsequent actions of the mother.
The public reaction to the incident has been one of outrage and disbelief. Many are questioning how such a situation could occur and are calling for stricter measures to protect children in similar environments. The Daytona Beach Police Department has emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the need for justice in this case.
Child’s Recovery and Future Implications
Despite the traumatic fall, the child is now reported to be in good health and has been released from the hospital. Medical professionals have indicated that no long-term health issues are expected as a result of the incident. The child’s recovery has been a relief to many, but the emotional and psychological impact of the event remains a concern.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about child safety and the responsibilities of adults in ensuring the well-being of minors. It also raises questions about the influence of alcohol and poor decision-making in such situations. As the legal proceedings continue, the case will likely serve as a cautionary tale and a call to action for better protective measures.
