Details of infant’s death revealed; PA man charged with murder: affidavit

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by Daily Voice on Wednesday afternoon, November 27th, Pennsylvania State Police responded to a home on Canvasback Drive in Oliver Township at 8:31 a.m. on Thursday, November 15th Sent to report an infant in cardiac arrest. The baby, identified as “CR,” was transported to Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where doctors determined he had suffered injuries consistent with severe physical abuse.

The affidavit states that Melendez admitted to shaking the baby “one time properly” after he slipped off his lap and fell to the floor while he was sleeping. He withheld details of the incident until he was confronted by investigators. He later confessed that he shook her head in frustration and described how her head was “rocking back and forth.”

Medical reports detailed in the affidavit noted extensive subdural hematomas, retinal hemorrhages and bruising, all of which were consistent with abusive head trauma. The child was pronounced dead at 10:35 p.m. on Sunday, November 24, after being removed from life support.

Melendez now faces the following charges:

• Crime 1: Aggravated Assault – Victim under 13 years old and defendant 18 years old or older.
• Crime 2: Aggravated assault – victim under 6 years old and defendant 18 years old or older.
• Crime 2: Endangering the welfare of the child – parents/guardians commit the crime.
• Crime 1: Aggravated Bodily Harm – Attempt to cause grievous bodily harm or cause injury with extreme indifference.
• Offense 1: Basic attack.

Melendez remains held without bail in the Perry County Jail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4th at 3:00 p.m. before Judge Fredrick Cabell Jr.

This is a developing story. Daily Voice has reached out to the family and the court for more information about this tragic turn of events. Check back here for updates.

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