Kensington, Philadelphia, PA: The tight-knit community of Kensington is reeling after the shocking assault of a 2-year-old boy last Tuesday evening. In a heartfelt statement, the child’s mother, 27-year-old Marisol Hernandez, has broken her silence to plead for the public’s help in identifying and apprehending the assailant.
A Mother’s Plea
“I was picking up groceries when I heard my son screaming,” Hernandez recounted, her voice quivering with emotion. “When I ran back inside, I saw a tall man standing over him and striking him repeatedly. He left him bleeding on the floor and walked out like nothing happened.”
The horrific incident occurred just after 6:00 PM in Hernandez’s home, located in the 200 block of East Oxford Street. Surveillance footage from a neighbor’s front porch camera captured a figure in a dark hoodie fleeing the scene moments after the attack.
“It all happened so fast,” Hernandez continued. “I scooped him into my arms and rushed him to the nearest emergency room. I was terrified I would lose him.”
The Community’s Shock
Residents woke up Wednesday to police tape and flashing lights surrounding Hernandez’s rowhouse. Neighbors described the area as usually peaceful, a rarity in the Kensington neighborhood that has seen its share of hardships.
“He’s such a joyful kid,” said Amanda Lynch, whose son is the toddler’s classmate at a local daycare. “To think someone could do this to a child—it’s beyond comprehension.”
Police Investigation Underway
Philadelphia Police Captain Daniel Ruiz confirmed that the assault is being treated as a violent felony and urged anyone with information to come forward.
“We have detectives canvassing the area, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing video from nearby businesses,” Ruiz said. “We believe the suspect may have followed the mother to her home but don’t have a motive yet.”
Authorities have described the suspect as:
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Approximately 6 feet tall
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Wearing a dark hoodie and gloves
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Moving with a deliberate, swift gait
A reward of up to $10,000 has been offered by a local non-profit organization for tips leading to an arrest.
Toddler’s Condition
The injured boy, whose name is being withheld due to his age, underwent surgery at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Doctors report that while he suffered a fractured skull and multiple contusions, he is now in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.
“His resilience is remarkable,” said pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Kavita Patel. “The swift medical response was crucial. We’re monitoring him closely, but his prognosis is optimistic.”
Call for Vigilance
Hernandez and community leaders are urging Kensington residents to review any home or exterior security footage and report suspicious activity. Local churches and block captains have mobilized neighborhood watches and are distributing flyers with the suspect’s description.
“I’m scared for every parent in this neighborhood,” Hernandez said. “We need to look out for one another. If you saw anything—even something that seems insignificant—please tell the police.”
Healing Amid Fear
In the wake of the assault, Kensington residents are organizing a vigil for the toddler and all victims of violence in the community. The event, scheduled for Friday evening at Norris Square Park, will feature candlelight, prayers, and an open microphone for families to share their stories.
“Kensington has always been resilient,” said Pastor Miguel Alvarez, who is helping coordinate the vigil. “We will stand together, grieve together, and demand justice together.”
The Search Continues
As the search for the suspect intensifies, Hernandez remains hopeful that someone will recognize the figure captured on video and step forward.
“I just want my baby to feel safe again,” she said, holding a teddy bear her son clutched after the attack. “Please help me bring him home unharmed in every way.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police Department Tip Line at (215) 686-TIPS. All calls can be made anonymously.
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