OCALA, FLA., A 32-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of his girlfriend’s 3-year-old daughter, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Jeroen Jarrell Coombs is facing a charge of aggravated child abuse following the death of Paisley Brown. Deputies responded around noon Thursday to a home in the 16500 block of NE 44th Avenue after receiving a report of an unresponsive child. Paramedics transported the child to a hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators stated that Coombs was the only adult present at the home at the time of the incident. Authorities said he contacted the child’s mother shortly before 11 a.m. to report that the girl was unresponsive. Deputies noted that emergency services were not contacted immediately.
According to law enforcement, evidence at the scene indicated the child had sustained visible injuries. Officials reported that Coombs later admitted to restraining the child and causing injuries prior to her death. Detectives stated that he acknowledged dropping the child while she was restrained and striking her during the incident.
Authorities said another child at the home told deputies that there had been previous instances of alleged abuse. Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the case.
Officials are awaiting autopsy results to determine the official cause and manner of death. Additional charges may be considered as the investigation progresses.
Family members expressed grief following the child’s death and voiced concerns about the circumstances leading up to the incident.
Coombs remains in custody at the Marion County Jail without bond as the investigation continues.
