A New York man, Patrick Proefriedt, has been accused of a horrifying act of violence, allegedly using a crossbow to kill his three-week-old daughter during a domestic dispute.

The incident took place in Colesville, New York, where deputies responded to a distress call. The call led them to a grim scene where an adult female and an infant had reportedly been shot with a crossbow.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office reported that the dispute involved Proefriedt and his wife. During the altercation, Proefriedt allegedly fired a crossbow at his wife, who was holding their infant daughter at the time. You can read more about the incident on True Crime Daily.

Tragic Outcome of a Domestic Dispute

The crossbow bolt fatally struck the infant, Eleanor, in the torso, exiting near the armpit, before hitting the woman in the chest. The first responders pronounced Eleanor dead at the scene while the woman was rushed to the hospital.

According to the Sheriff's Office, Proefriedt attempted to prevent his wife from contacting law enforcement by removing the arrow and fleeing the scene in a 2016 Dodge Ram before deputies arrived.

Deputies, with assistance from the New York State Police and Chenango County Sheriff's Office, created a perimeter in the area and began a search for Proefriedt. He was found less than a mile away from the home in a wooded area after his truck got stuck in the mud.

Charges and History of Violence

Proefriedt was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, and first-degree criminal contempt. He was scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, June 26.

The Sheriff's Office noted that Proefriedt had an active Stay Away Order of Protection and a long history of domestic violence, painting a picture of a man with a troubled past.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar, in a press conference, referred to the case as one of the "most heartbreaking and senseless crimes."

“This is one of the most heartbreaking and senseless crimes committed in this community in recent memory... Our thoughts are with the family of this innocent 3-week-old girl, Eleanor Carey. I commend the quick and decisive action of our Law Enforcement division in responding to this tragedy and ensuring Mr. Proefriedt did not escape justice. Thank you to the New York State Police and the Chenango County Sheriff's Office for assisting with this investigation and arrest.”

Community in Shock Over the Tragedy

The incident has left the community in shock, grappling with the horrifying details of the crime. The senseless loss of a young life in such a violent manner has raised many questions about the circumstances leading up to the incident.

As the investigation continues, the community awaits justice for the innocent life lost. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence.

The case continues to unfold, with more details expected to emerge during the court proceedings. The community, meanwhile, mourns the loss of a young life and hopes for justice to be served.

Conclusion

• Patrick Proefriedt, a New York man, is accused of killing his three-week-old daughter with a crossbow during a domestic dispute.
• The crossbow bolt struck the infant and then hit the woman in the chest. The infant was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Proefriedt was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, and first-degree criminal contempt.
• Proefriedt had an active Stay Away Order of Protection and a long history of domestic violence.
• The incident has left the community in shock, raising many questions about the circumstances leading up to the incident.

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