A disturbing roadside incident in Jacksonville leads to tragic consequences for a young family.

According to Daily Mail, a 20-year-old Florida father faces multiple charges after allegedly placing his eight-month-old child in the middle of a busy intersection and subsequently running over the infant with his vehicle.

The incident occurred at approximately 11 am on Saturday at the intersection of Lenox and McDuff avenues in Jacksonville, where Justin Golden reportedly engaged in a heated argument with a passenger, believed to be the child's mother, before the tragic events unfolded.

Local law enforcement swiftly responded to the scene, while emergency medical services rushed the injured infant to a nearby hospital, where medical professionals pronounced the child deceased.

Witness Account Reveals Harrowing Details of Fatal Incident

Markin Barnes, who operates a barbershop near the intersection, provided a firsthand account of the tragedy's immediate aftermath.

The local business owner, himself a father of twins, described being drawn outside by the sound of a woman's desperate screams. Upon reaching the scene, Barnes encountered a devastating sight that would leave an indelible mark on his memory.

Barnes shared his emotional response to the incident:

The kid was bleeding, so we immediately asked did she need help. Just the screaming, the people consoling her, you could tell it really was tragic. Especially with a kid being that young. It hits home - anything dealing with the kids and you we take very seriously.

The witness's testimony provides crucial context to the investigation as authorities work to determine whether Golden's actions were intentional or accidental. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has pledged their commitment to pursuing justice in this case.

Law Enforcement Response and Legal Proceedings Begin

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office detailed how Golden allegedly stopped his vehicle at the intersection, placed the infant on the ground, and struck the child while attempting to leave the scene. Despite his initial flight from the location, law enforcement quickly located and apprehended Golden.

The Sheriff's Office emphasized their dedication to the case:

We, with our partners at the State Attorneys' Office will stop at nothing to get justice for the baby.

As the investigation continues, authorities have not yet disclosed whether the incident was intentional. The Jacksonville Police Department maintains an active investigation into all aspects of the case, working closely with the State Attorney's Office to ensure a thorough examination of the evidence.

The legal system has already begun processing the case, with Golden facing serious charges, including aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and failing to render aid. He currently remains in custody at Duval County Jail, where he is being held without bond pending further legal proceedings.

Lessons to Learn From This Tragedy

1. Awareness and Intervention: Individuals must be aware of their surroundings and intervene or call authorities when they suspect child endangerment.

2. Support Systems: Establishing strong community support systems can help prevent tragedies by providing assistance and resources to struggling families.

3. Child Safety Education: Educating parents and guardians about child safety, stress management, and conflict resolution can reduce the risk of such incidents.

Despite the preventive steps one might take, it's essential to remember crime can occur under various circumstances, and victims are never to blame for the criminal actions of others.

Why This Story Matters

This heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic disputes escalating to violence. It stresses the imperative need for vigilance in our communities and responsiveness to signs of domestic tension and child endangerment.

As the investigation continues, this case has drawn attention to the importance of legal preparedness and community awareness in preventing and responding to domestic crimes involving young victims.

Conclusion

Justin Golden, a 20-year-old Jacksonville resident, faces multiple felony charges after allegedly placing his eight-month-old child in harm's way at a busy intersection and subsequently striking the infant with his vehicle.

The incident, which occurred at the intersection of Lenox and McDuff avenues, resulted in the child's death despite immediate medical intervention.