A fire chief from the suburbs of Philadelphia is facing severe charges after allegedly causing grave harm to his infant daughter. Brian Salt, 36, is being accused of aggravated assault following an incident where he is said to have thrown his crying baby to the ground. The child survived the incident but suffered significant injuries, including a skull fracture, unexplained bleeding around the eye, and bruising on her legs.
Detective Dennis O’Connell from the Falls Township Police Department provided details about the extent of the injuries, which were primarily concentrated on the right rear side of the baby’s skull. Hospital staff also reported additional unexplained bleeding and bruising. Salt, who is currently in custody on 10% of a $500,000 bail, has been charged with aggravated assault.
The incident reportedly took place on March 12, leading to a call to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Initially, both parents of the three-month-old girl claimed they were unaware of how the injuries occurred. However, during a subsequent interview, Salt allegedly confessed that he had been alone with the baby while his wife was at work. He described the baby as suffering from colic and being inconsolable, which led him to lose control.
According to Detective O’Connell, Salt admitted to losing his temper and throwing the baby to the ground after removing her from a swing. Salt, who serves as the fire chief for Falls Township and also works as a firefighter and EMT for Northampton Township, has been suspended indefinitely due to the charges.
The Falls Township fire department issued a statement acknowledging the charges against Salt and confirming his suspension. The department expressed its concern for the Salt family and the impact of the situation on the community. They pledged transparency moving forward and reiterated their commitment to the safety and well-being of the community and their firefighters.